The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has dismissed claims that approximately 150 bandits drowned in a boat accident in the Sabon Gida area of Sabon Birni Local Government, Sokoto State.
Speaking on Monday, NIWA’s Sokoto Zonal Office Area Manager, Mr. Bello Bala, described the report as false, noting that the river in question is not navigable. He urged the media to exercise caution, verify information with credible sources, and assured that NIWA remains available to provide accurate updates.
Bala emphasized that the authority has been actively engaging riverine communities on water safety, including the use of life jackets, adherence to guidelines, and other safety protocols. He added that any actual incidents would be promptly reported by local water users association leaders.
Supporting NIWA’s statement, a source from the 8th Division of the Nigerian Army in Sokoto also confirmed that the report was untrue. The source, who requested anonymity, stated that troops were deployed in the area and no boat mishap involving bandits had occurred.
