A tragic boat accident on the River Benue claimed the lives of over 20 passengers, including traders and children, as their overloaded vessel capsized en route from Agatu, Benue, to Nasarawa State. Eyewitnesses report the boat struck a submerged tree mid-river. Authorities are investigating the devastating incident.
At least 20 people, including women and children, tragically lost their lives in a boat mishap on the River Benue. The wooden vessel, carrying traders returning from the Ocholonya market in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, was en route to Nasarawa State when it capsized.
Eyewitness accounts reveal that the boat was overloaded with passengers and goods, despite warnings to reduce the load. Ameh, a local resident, recounted hearing cries from women around 8 p.m., signaling the disaster. The passengers, primarily traders from Nasarawa’s Toto and Doma LGAs, had come to Agatu to conduct business and were crossing back to Odenyi when the incident occurred.
"The canoe hit a submerged tree mid-river and broke apart," Ameh explained, adding that overcrowding played a significant role in the tragedy. Efforts to persuade some passengers to wait for a second trip were ignored, leading to the fatal accident.
Local authorities have since been alerted, and recovery operations are ongoing. This heartbreaking incident highlights the dangers of overloading and the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety measures for river transport in the region.
The victims' families and communities are mourning the loss of lives, with many calling for improved safety regulations to prevent future tragedies on waterways frequently used for trade and travel.
