At least 27 lives have been claimed, with more than 100 individuals unaccounted for following a devastating boat capsizing on the River Niger in Nigeria's northern region.
Tragedy Strikes as Boat Capsizes on River Niger: Death Toll Rises
Tragedy Strikes as Boat Capsizes on River Niger: Death Toll Rises
Dozens of lives lost and many still missing after a boat accident in Nigeria on its way to a local market.
ABUJA, Nigeria — A tragic incident unfolded on Friday as a boat carrying approximately 200 passengers to a food market capsized along the River Niger, leading to the reported deaths of at least 27 individuals, while over 100 others—predominantly women—remain missing. According to local authorities, the vessel was traveling from Kogi State to a neighboring area when the accident occurred.
Ibrahim Audu, a representative from the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, stated that rescue teams have recovered 27 bodies by Friday evening, while divers are actively engaged in ongoing searches for any survivors. Sandra Musa, a spokesperson for the Kogi State emergency services, emphasized that efforts to reach the capsized vessel's location were hampered, delaying rescue operations significantly.
Although the precise cause of the sinking remains undetermined, reports surrounding the incident indicate that the vessel may have been carrying an excessive number of passengers. This overcrowding problem is a frequent occurrence in remote areas of Nigeria, where limited road infrastructure forces communities to rely heavily on water transportation. Tragically, many of these vessels are often constructed locally, disregarding safety regulations and prioritizing capacity over passenger safety.
The lack of enforcement of safety measures, including the use of life jackets, has contributed to the escalating frequency of such dangerous incidents. Authorities frequently cite the unavailability and cost of life vests as obstacles to ensuring safe travel on these waterways.
The rising number of fatalities due to similar accidents in Nigeria paints a concerning picture, highlighting the urgent need for stronger regulatory frameworks and safety enforcement in the country’s water transportation sector. Justin Uwazuruonye, overseeing the National Emergency Management Agency's operations in the state, expressed his concerns regarding the increasing frequency of such tragic events.
