25 drown after overloaded boat capsizes in Nigeria

LAGOS, Nigeria (AA) - At least 25 people drowned when an overloaded boat capsized in Nigeria, officials said Tuesday.

The boat carrying about 50 passengers, mostly traders, departed Monday from Kasabo village to Yauri in northwest Kebbi State.

The boat accident occurred midway into the journey, according to the Chairman of Yauri Local Government, Bala Muhammad Gaga.

"There are at least 25 that have drowned. We are trying to get the exact number of passengers on board. So far,13 people have been rescued on Tuesday: two dead bodies recovered," Gaga told Anadolu.

He said the navy and local divers were among the rescue team.

"The rescue operation still continues until we pull out every victim from the waters," Gaga said from the scene of the accident.

Governor Nasir Idris extended his sympathy to the community.

"I want to urge you to see what happened as the will of Almighty Allah that nobody can question, therefore, accept it in good faith. We should also continue to pray to Allah to forgive their shortcomings," he said in a message.

Boat accidents are common in Nigeria as rivers overflow following heavy rains.