At least 10 people die in Nigeria boat accident

16/12/2024 6:07

At least 10 people died when a

boat capsized on the Benue River in central Nigeria, Benue State

police spokesperson Catherine Anene said on Sunday.



Boat accidents have claimed more than 220 lives in Nigeria

so far this year.



Overcrowding and poor maintenance are responsible for most

boat accidents, while life jackets are not provided, which

significantly increases the risk of fatalities.



Anene said 10 bodies were recovered from the accident, which

occurred on Saturday, and that a search and rescue operation is

ongoing.



She said the boat was carrying mostly traders to the market

when it capsized on River Benue near Ocholonya in Agatu local

government area.



Agatu local government chairman, Melvin Ejeh, told Reuters,

that around 70 mostly women traders were onboard the boat, which

had no manifest.



"50 people have been rescued alive so far. Search and rescue

operation still ongoing," Ejeh added.