Nigeria: Six Child Laborers Drown in River Accident

Six child laborers drowned after a boat capsized in a river in Nigeria, according to police reports.

The incident occurred when the boat, carrying approximately fifteen girls aged 12 and 13, overturned while returning from work in a rice field in Jigawa State.

Police spokesman Shisu Adam attributed the accident to the river overflowing due to recent rainfall, strong currents, and a lack of safety measures, as the teenagers were not wearing life jackets.

The boat's captain, who fled the scene, will face charges of criminal negligence and non-compliance with safety regulations.

Boat accidents are frequent in Nigerian rivers, often due to the use of unseaworthy vessels and disregard for safety regulations.