A boat accident along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger in Kogi State has claimed the lives of at least eight people, with over 100 passengers, mostly women, still missing.
The tragedy occurred early Friday morning as the passengers were being transported to a food market in a neighboring community in Niger State.
Ibrahim Audu, the spokesman for the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, confirmed to The Associated Press that the boat capsized while en route.
“At least eight persons have been confirmed dead at the scene, while local divers are working tirelessly to rescue others,” Audu said.
Eyewitnesses suggested the boat, reportedly carrying more than 200 passengers, was likely overloaded, although authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the mishap.
Justin Uwazuruonye, the coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Kogi State, revealed that officials are still trying to pinpoint the exact location of the accident and are seeking assistance from other agencies.
“The rescue efforts are ongoing, but locating the incident site has been a significant challenge,” he stated.
