A devastating boat accident occurred on the River Benue on Saturday, resulting in the loss of over 20 lives, mostly women and children. The victims were traders returning to Odenyi in Nasarawa Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State after attending the Ocholonya market in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to local resident Adanyi, the boat capsized while transporting passengers back to their homes, resulting in the tragic loss of life. Agatu LGA Chairman Melvin James confirmed the incident, stating that the victims had come to the Ocholonya market and were returning to their communities in Doma, Nasarawa State, when the boat capsized.
James reported that local divers had recovered some bodies, but the exact number of casualties remains uncertain. Efforts to reach the divers for confirmation have been unsuccessful. The chairman has reached out to the Nigerian Navy commander in the LGA for assistance in the ongoing rescue efforts.
The Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, was unavailable for comment at the time of filing this report. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the need for improved water transportation safety measures.
