At least 64 people are feared dead following a tragic boat accident on a river in Zamfara State, northwest Nigeria, local officials reported on Saturday.

The wooden boat, carrying 70 farmers, capsized while transporting them to their farmlands near Gummi town on Saturday morning.

Local authorities swiftly mobilized a rescue operation, with residents joining the search effort. After three hours, six survivors were pulled from the water, according to officials. Rescue teams remain on-site, continuing the search in hopes of finding more survivors.

Aminu Nuhu Falale, a local administrator leading the rescue efforts, stated that this is the second such incident in the Gummi Local Government Area. Overcrowding on the river has become a serious concern, with more than 900 farmers relying on only two boats daily to reach their fields. "Overcrowding is a common problem," explained the local traditional ruler.

Zamfara State, already facing significant challenges due to criminal gangs vying for control of mineral resources, has also been hit hard by seasonal flooding. Heavy rains have displaced more than 10,000 residents in the region over the past two weeks, compounding the difficulties faced by local communities.

Efforts to recover the remaining victims and improve safety on the river continue as officials seek solutions to prevent future tragedies. (ILKHA)