Over 20 people lost their lives on Saturday night in a tragic boat mishap while crossing the River Benue in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue, Nigeria.
Local sources revealed that most of the victims were traders and Agatu natives from Nasarawa State, returning home after attending the Ocholonya market in Agatu LGA.
An eyewitness recounted the incident, stating, “The victims were mainly Agatu people from Toto and Doma LGAs in Nasarawa State who had visited Ocholonya market on Saturday.
“They were crossing to Odenyi in Nasarawa after the market. I was in Ijaha around 8 p.m. when I heard women crying and shouting that the boat carrying the traders sank before reaching the shore.
“The wooden canoe was overloaded, and despite warnings for some passengers to disembark, the warnings were ignored as they hurried to return home. Midway through the journey, the canoe struck a tree and broke apart, leading to many passengers drowning.
“Local divers have recovered several bodies, but many are still missing. The search for survivors and more bodies is ongoing. It’s a devastating loss for Agatu people in both Benue and Nasarawa states because we are one community.”
Confirming the tragedy, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr. Melvin Ejeh, reported that about 20 bodies had been recovered, with rescue operations continuing.
He added, “The victims were primarily Agatu traders from communities like Odadu, Rukubi, Agbashi, and Ajima in Nasarawa State. They were returning home from Ocholonya market when the accident occurred.
“I have been in contact with the Chairmen of Toto and Doma LGAs in Nasarawa State, and we are working together on the issue. I’ve also reached out to the Nigerian Navy for assistance. So far, approximately 20 bodies have been recovered, and efforts to locate more survivors and victims are ongoing.”
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful, and the State Command had not issued an official statement on the incident at the time of reporting.
