20 bodies recovered, many missing in Kogi boat accident
Grief has gripped communities in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State after a boat en route to Ilushi market capsized on the Niger River Tuesday afternoon, leaving at least 20 people feared dead.
Eyewitnesses say the boat, which left from Onugwa community, was overwhelmed by the current around 4:30 p.m. as it made its way across the river.
Sources report that the vessel was carrying several market-bound traders and residents, many of them heading to buy goods ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.
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Survivors say the boat was heavily loaded and began taking on water just before it overturned. Five people have been rescued so far.
Bodies have been pulled from the waters, though the exact number of people on board remains uncertain. Many victims are still believed to be submerged.
One local resident, James Otoga, said some of the travellers were returning from attending a burial in Onugwa when the tragedy struck.
The Chairman of Ibaji LGA, Ugeh Emmanuel, described the incident as the worst boat accident in the area’s history, lamenting that no one can yet confirm the full death toll or how many were aboard.
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He noted that the boat had not yet reached Ilushi when it capsized, making rescue more difficult in the middle of the river.
Local search and rescue operations were launched immediately after the incident, involving community volunteers, fishermen, and state officials.
Officials said they were coordinating with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and other agencies to bolster the efforts.
Relatives have begun arriving at the riverbanks in anguish, hoping to find missing loved ones and reclaim bodies for burial.
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