A tragic boat accident occurred on the River Benue near Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of over 20 people.
The victims, mostly women and children, were returning to Doma in Nasarawa State, going to a market in Ocholonya village, when their wooden boat capsized.
Adanyi, a resident of Ocholonya, said the tragic event occurred when the boat carrying traders from Odenyi in Nasarawa State capsized mid-journey. The ship was reportedly overloaded with goods and passengers, possibly contributing to the accident.
Other eyewitnesses reported that the boat capsized due to poor visibility caused by obstructing river shrubs. The sailor reportedly failed to see the trees in the water, leading to a collision that caused the boat to overturn.
Local divers have been working tirelessly to recover bodies and search for any remaining survivors.
Agatu Local Government Chairman Melvin James confirmed the incident on Sunday. He said that local divers had recovered several bodies, but he was awaiting a formal update for the exact death toll.
“Over 20 people may have perished in this tragic incident,” James said.
James added that the Nigerian Navy had been contacted to assist with the ongoing rescue operation.
Efforts are underway to coordinate with Nasarawa State officials to support the grieving families.
Condolences Pour In
The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the recovery of 20 corpses and the rescue of 11 survivors.
The Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) has expressed condolences to the people and government of Benue State. The forum commended the emergency responders for rescuing 11 travellers alive and called for stricter enforcement of safety protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.
The incident has left the community in mourning, with many families grieving the loss of their loved ones. The victims were primarily traders from various communities in Nasarawa State, including Agatu, Agbashi, Ajima, Okpata, Rukubi, Ondoli, and Odadu.
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