At least 60 bodies have been recovered following a tragic boat accident in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, where over 300 passengers, primarily women and children, were on board.
The boat capsized while en route to the Annual Maulud celebration from Mundi to Gbajibo on the evening of October 1, 2024.
According to the Press Secretary to the Council Chairman, Abubakar Dakani, the boat capsized at the notorious Gbajibo River. While approximately 60 bodies have been confirmed recovered, rescue efforts are ongoing, with 10 survivors already located.
The Council Chairman, Abdullahi Muregi, is coordinating with local authorities to manage the situation.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) is actively involved in the search and rescue operations. Director General Alhaji Abdullahi Baba-Arah confirmed that local volunteers have played a crucial role, aiding in the recovery of over 150 individuals alive.
The incident occurred around 8:30 PM near the Jebba Dam, highlighting the dangers of traveling on the river, especially during celebrations. Previous incidents have also raised concerns about boat safety in the region; a similar accident in September 2023 resulted in 24 fatalities.
Local divers, community volunteers, and various agencies are collaborating to locate additional survivors, and Baba-Arah assured the public that updates would follow as efforts continue.
