Tragedy struck in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State on Tuesday when a passenger boat conveying about 80 people capsized along the River Niger, leaving at least 36 people dead and 40 others rescued.
The victims were mostly residents of Onugwa, a riverine community with a population of over 300 people, known for farming and river trade. Onugwa and neighboring communities frequently cross the River Niger to Illushi in Edo State to sell their farm produce — a routine journey that turned deadly.
Confirming the incident, the Idah Station Head of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Williams Isaac, said rescue operations were still ongoing as of press time.
“The boat was carrying about 80 passengers. So far, 36 have been confirmed dead, while 40 have been rescued,” Isaac said.
Reacting to the tragedy, Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Comfort Egwaba, expressed deep shock. He said the government immediately directed relevant agencies to launch rescue operations once the news broke.
Governor Ododo also urged riverine dwellers to adopt basic safety measures when traveling on waterways, praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and comfort for their families.
The mishap has once again raised concerns about the safety of inland water transportation in riverine communities, where boats remain the primary means of movement and trade.
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