At least 20 people have lost their lives following the capsizing of a boat on the River Benue on Saturday, December 14th, 2024.
Information gathered has it that the canoe overturned while transporting passengers and goods from Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area to Odenyi in Nasarawa Toto Local Government Area of Nasarawa State after the closure of Ocholonya market.
An eyewitness, Fada Awatsu, stated, “The wooden boat was carrying an excessive load of goods and passengers departing from the Ocholonya market. Shortly after departure, passengers began to panic, leading to the boat ultimately capsizing and submerging in the water.”
The victims reportedly hailed from various locations, including Agatu, Agbashi, Ajima, Okpata, Rukubi, Ondoli, and Odadu in the Doma Local Government Area. Initial reports indicate that a majority of the victims were women and children who were returning to their homes after visiting the market.
As of now, 19 bodies have been recovered from the scene of the incident, while rescue operations are ongoing to locate additional individuals who may be unaccounted for.
Upon inquiry, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, confirmed the unfortunate event. He stated, “The victims were returning from the Ocholonya market to their village in the adjacent Nasarawa State. The sailor's view was obstructed by vegetation along the riverbank, and upon colliding with the trees, the canoe capsized.”
Hon. Ejeh reported that over 20 bodies have been retrieved, and rescue efforts are still in progress. He also expressed his intention to dispatch officials from the council to extend condolences to the families affected by this incident.
Attempts to reach the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, SP Catherine Anene, for confirmation of the event were unsuccessful, as repeated calls went unanswered.