Over 20 feared dead as overloaded boat capsizes on River Benue

At least 20 people are feared dead after a boat capsized on the River Benue on Saturday, December 14.

The incident occurred while the boat was ferrying passengers from Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State to Odenyi in Nasarawa Toto LGA of Nasarawa State, following activities at the Ocholonya market.

An eyewitness described the scene, explaining that the wooden boat, heavily overloaded with goods and passengers, started to encounter trouble shortly after departure. “There was panic among the passengers, and the boat eventually capsized,” the eyewitness said.

The victims were reportedly from various communities, including Agatu, Agbashi, Ajima, Okpata, Rukubi, Ondoli, and Odadu in Doma LGA. Sources indicated that most of the passengers were women and children returning from the market.

As of now, 19 bodies have been recovered, with rescue teams continuing efforts to locate others.

Hon. Melvin Ejeh, Chairman of Agatu LGA, confirmed the tragic incident, stating, “The boat was overloaded and capsized shortly after departure.” He also mentioned that over 20 bodies had been recovered, and rescue operations were still ongoing. Ejeh added that the local government would send officials to comfort the families of the victims.