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The Digest:

A tragic boat accident on the River Niger in Kogi State has resulted in a significant loss of life, with 14 bodies recovered and 42 passengers still missing after a vessel capsized. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the incident, which highlights the persistent dangers of water travel in Nigeria due to overcrowding and lax safety measures.

Key Points:
  • A boat carrying 80 passengers capsized on the River Niger in Ibaji LGA, Kogi State.
  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 30, around 5:40 p.m.
  • NEMA confirmed 24 passengers were rescued alive, and 14 bodies have been recovered.
  • A search and rescue operation is ongoing for the 42 individuals still missing.
  • The boat was traveling from the Onugwa community to the Olushi village.
  • The response involves multiple agencies, including local divers and the Red Cross.
  • The tragedy underscores the urgent need for enforced water safety regulations.
This disaster serves as another grim reminder of the recurring and preventable nature of such tragedies, pointing to systemic failures in enforcing basic safety protocols on the nation's waterways.

Sources: Daily Post