At least 20 people, mostly women and children, are feared dead after a boat carrying traders capsized on the River Benue near Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday.
Details of the Incident
The wooden boat, ferrying traders back to Odenyi in Nasarawa Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State after attending the Ocholonya market, capsized mid-journey.
Adanyi Adanu, a community leader in Ocholonya, confirmed the tragic event, stating:
“Yesterday was Ocholonya market day. The boat was carrying women and children back to Odenyi-Doma in Nasarawa State when it capsized, and everyone drowned.”
Local Government Confirms Fatalities
Melvin James, Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, confirmed the incident on Sunday. He revealed:
- Most victims were traders from Apochi and Odenyi communities in Nasarawa State.
- Local divers have reportedly recovered some bodies, but the exact number of fatalities is yet to be confirmed.
James added that efforts are underway to collaborate with Nasarawa State officials to console the bereaved families. The Nigerian Navy has also been contacted to aid in rescue and recovery operations.
Conflicting Casualty Reports
While some local sources claim 20 bodies have been recovered, others indicate that several victims remain unaccounted for.
Police Response Awaited
Efforts to reach SP Catherine Anene, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, for an official update were unsuccessful at the time of reporting, as her phone was unreachable.
The tragedy underscores the dangers faced by rural communities relying on boat transportation in the absence of proper safety measures. Rescue operations and efforts to account for the victims are ongoing.
