A devastating boat accident on the River Benue has claimed the lives of more than 20 people, most of whom were women and children. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday as the wooden canoe was ferrying passengers from Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, to Odenyi in Toto LGA, Nasarawa State.
The passengers, primarily residents of Agatu, Agbashi, Ajima, Okpata, Rukubi, Ondoli, and Odadu in Doma LGA, were reportedly returning home from a bustling market in Ocholonya. According to Hon. Melvin Ejeh, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, the victims had been conducting business at the market before embarking on the ill-fated journey.
“The victims were returning from Ocholonya market to their village in nearby Nasarawa State,” Ejeh confirmed. He explained that the accident happened after the sailor’s view was blocked by thick shrubs in the river. When the canoe hit the submerged trees, it overturned, causing the tragedy.
Eyewitness Fada Awatsu recounted, “The wooden boat was loaded with goods and passengers from Ocholonya market. It was overloaded and shortly after takeoff, there was uproar by passengers in the boat, and it eventually tumbled and lowered into the water.”
Over 20 bodies have been recovered so far, and rescue operations are still underway. Officials from Agatu LGA are expected to visit the families of the deceased to express condolences.
