A tragic boat accident has claimed the lives of at least 11 people in River Benue, Benue State. This happened after a vessel carrying mourners back from a burial ceremony capsized on the River Benue.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening between 7pm and 8pm as passengers were returning to Daududawadawa, an island community located behind the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering. This is in the North Bank area of Makurdi.
According to local sources, the boat was carrying more than 40 passengers when it overturned in the middle of the river. This happened during a heavy rainstorm accompanied by strong winds.
The passengers had attended the burial of a woman from their community. Her remains were taken to Wadata for interment after she passed away at a private hospital earlier that day.
Confirming the incident, local vigilante commander Nura Umar said rescue efforts began immediately after the accident. Four bodies had been recovered and buried, while search operations continued for the remaining victims.
Among those feared dead are a pregnant woman and six children. Umar also revealed that one survivor lost a baby who had been strapped to her back when the boat capsized.
The tragedy has once again raised concerns about safety on Benue’s waterways. This comes despite recent efforts by the state government to enforce stricter regulations, including the mandatory use of life jackets for passengers and boat operators.
Authorities are yet to release an official casualty figure as rescue teams continue searching the river for missing persons. The incident has left the affected community in mourning as families await news of their loved ones.
