A search and rescue operation is continuing in northern Nigeria after a boat capsised in Sokota state.

Officials say at least 50 bodies have been recovered.

Most were children heading to help with the rice harvest in nearby fields.

More than 70 people are believed to have been on board.

Police Spokesperson Ahmad Rufai says only 16 people have been rescued alive so far.

The accident took ‌place near Gorau in Goronyo local government area.

Deadly boat accidents are ​relatively common in Nigeria, where overcrowding, poor maintenance and weak enforcement of ​safety regulations often contribute to disasters on the country’s rivers and waterways, particularly during the rainy season.

–ChannelAfrica–