A heartbreaking boat accident occurred in Niger State’s Mokwa Local Government Area, leaving dozens dead and many more missing.
Accident Details
– Location: Gbajibo River, Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State
– Date: October 1, 2024 (evening)
– Number of passengers: Approximately 300 (mostly women and children)
– Destination: Gbajibo for Annual Maulud celebration
– Cause of accident: Yet to be determined
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
– Recovered bodies: At least 60
– Rescued survivors: 150 (according to Niger State Emergency Management Agency)
– Missing persons: Unknown, search and rescue operations ongoing
Response from Authorities
Abdullahi Baba-Arah, Director-General of Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), confirmed the incident and stated, “The agency, in collaboration with the state Ministry of Transport, Mokwa Local Government Emergency Committee, local divers, and community volunteers, are directing and monitoring search and rescue operations.”
Local Government Reaction
Council Chairman Abdullahi Muregi acknowledged the recovery of approximately 60 bodies and expressed condolences to the affected families.
Related Incidents
– Bayelsa Boat Accident: 20 people died in a boat explosion and sinking.
– Niger Floods: 11 deaths and 529 communities affected.
This tragic incident highlights the need for improved water safety measures and emergency response systems in Nigeria.
Vanguard.
