A tragic boat accident on the River Benue near Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State left many, mostly women and children, feared dead.
The victims were reportedly returning to Doma in Nasarawa State after attending a market in Ocholonya village on Saturday when their wooden boat capsized.
A local resident, identified as Adanyi, described the incident:
“Yesterday (Saturday) was Ocholonya market day.
The boat was carrying women and children back to Odenyi in Nasarawa State when it capsized.”
The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin James, confirmed the incident on Sunday, stating that the victims were primarily traders from Apochi and Odenyi communities in Doma, Nasarawa State.
“I have been informed about the accident, and reports indicate that over 20 people might have died.
Local divers have recovered bodies, but I am waiting for a formal update to confirm the exact number,” James said.
He further noted that efforts are underway to coordinate with Nasarawa State officials to console the bereaved families.
Additionally, the Nigerian Navy has been contacted to assist in ongoing rescue operations.
Attempts to reach the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Catherine Anene, for further details were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report, as her phone was unreachable.
