The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has officially dismissed viral reports alleging that approximately 150 bandits drowned following a boat mishap in the Sabon Gida area of Sokoto State.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday, NIWA’s Sokoto Zonal Area Manager, Mr. Bello Bala, labeled the claims as “fake news.” He clarified that the river mentioned in the reports is not navigable, making such an incident impossible.
“There was no such incident,” Bala stated. “We appeal to the media to verify information through credible sources before dissemination to avoid spreading misinformation.” He further noted that if such an event had occurred, it would have been reported immediately by local water users’ associations.
The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division in Sokoto also debunked the claims. An anonymous military source confirmed that troops stationed across the local government areas reported no boat capsizes or bandit casualties.
NIWA reaffirmed its commitment to maritime safety, reminding the public that it continues to educate riverine communities on the mandatory use of life jackets and other safety protocols.
