A tragic incident occurred in Niger State on Sunday when a boat capsized in the Mokwa area.
As of the time of this report, crucial details such as the exact number of passengers on board and the cause of the accident remain unconfirmed.
Jibrim Muregi, the Chairman of Mokwa Local Government, confirmed the incident during a telephone conversation with Channels Television. He stated that rescue operations are actively underway.
Unfortunately, he also confirmed the recovery of 21 deceased individuals and mentioned that three community members from Gbajibo, Ekwa, and Yankeiade were among the affected.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the mishap. However, he reported that, according to available police information, the tragedy claimed the lives of 13 individuals.
“Information received from the Gbajibo area of Mokwa indicated that a wooden boat conveying some passengers on board from Gbajibo water side heading to Tungan-Mango for farming activities capsized,” the police spokesman said.
“On receiving the report, DPO Mokwa Div mobilised police teams including marine police to the scene, in collaboration with local divers and so far thirteen persons confirmed dead as a search and rescue operation is ongoing. Further development will be made public.”
The latest incident comes three months after a boat carrying families returning from a wedding sank in a river, killing over 100 people on board.
