Nigeria river tragedy: Search for survivors after boat capsizes
An accident occurred in northern Nigeria where a boat carrying passengers to food markets in neighboring Niger capsized. Onboard were approximately 200 people, mostly women. According to Radio ZET, rescuers have already recovered 27 bodies from the tragedy.
12:17 PM EST, November 30, 2024
As a result of this tragic accident on a river in Nigeria, about 200 passengers were trapped when the vessel overturned during a trip from Kogi State to the neighboring State of Niger. Rescuers immediately sprang into action, and after many hours of intensive efforts, they have managed to recover 27 bodies so far.
The spokesman for the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, Ibrahim Audu, reported that rescuers and divers have been continuously searching. Despite their intensive efforts, after 12 hours they have not been able to find any surviving passengers.
Tragedy in Nigeria: Search for bodies continues
Justin Uwazuruonye, coordinator of the Nigerian National Emergency Management Agency, added that rescuers encountered difficulties in determining the exact location of the boat's capsizing, which significantly delayed the rescue operation.
The boat was transporting passengers to food markets, and most people onboard were women. Although the cause of the disaster has not been officially specified, Nigerian media suggest that the boat may have been overloaded, a common issue in the region.
Overloaded boats are common, especially in remote parts of Nigeria, where road infrastructure is insufficient, and water transport is the only option to reach essential places like markets or other trade centers. In many areas with poor or nonexistent roads, residents are forced to use rivers and lakes to transport goods and people.
