Over 50,000 fishermen unexpectedly plunged into the Matan Fada River in Argungu on Saturday during the grand finale of the 2026 Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival (AIFCF), ahead of the arrival of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other dignitaries.
The incident contravened the protocol of the annual festival, as competitors were expected to wait for dignitaries before commencing the fishing competition.
Originally, the order of programme indicated that the grand fishing competition would hold from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and would be witnessed by President Tinubu, alongside Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi and other high-profile dignitaries. However, the eager participants acted otherwise.
Western Post reports that security personnel and festival officials were unable to manage the situation, as the fishermen had already commenced the competition before reinforcements arrived.
Despite the absence of the President and other key dignitaries, the festival proceeded with the traditional fishing contest, to the amazement of thousands of spectators.
The 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival once again attracted participants and tourists from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, reinforcing its reputation as one of Africa’s leading cultural tourism events.
Dignitaries expected at the event included senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers and captains of industry.
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