Tragedy struck in Nafada town, Gombe State, as five teenage girls lost their lives in a devastating boat mishap over the weekend.

The victims were identified as Najib Ibrahim (18), Hauwa’u Dogal (15), Ummati Baraya (16), Umaira Gidado (16), and Amina Jaliya (15). According to reports, the incident occurred while the victims were traveling across the river, though details surrounding the cause of the accident remain unclear.

Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, expressed deep sorrow over the incident in a condolence message issued by his media aide, Ismaila Uba-Misilli, on Sunday. He described the tragedy as “painful and heart-wrenching,” especially considering the young ages of the victims.

“This tragic incident has cut short the lives of promising young people,” the governor said, sympathising with their parents and the entire Nafada community.

Governor Yahaya extended his condolences to the bereaved families, praying for God’s comfort and strength to help them bear the loss. He also emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of water transport safety regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

He urged local councils, community leaders, and boat operators to prioritise safety measures and adhere to proper guidelines in riverine transportation.

The governor further directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Nafada Local Government Council to provide necessary support and relief to the affected families.

The boat mishap has left the Nafada community in mourning, with residents calling for urgent action to improve safety and oversight across waterways in the region.