An unidentified number of passengers have been reportedly missing after a boat carrying about 100 passengers in Niger State capsized on Monday.
The boat, which took off from Dugga Mashaya in Dugga ward, Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State and was heading for Wara market in Kebbi State, conveyed people as well as goods such as grains and sugar cane, the Director-General, Niger State Emergency Management Agency, Abdullahi Arah, stated.
The NSEMA boss added that the number of casualties and survivors remained sketchy, however, search and rescue operations were ongoing.
“NSEMA has received a report of a boat accident that occurred at Borgu LGA. The incident happened this afternoon, Monday, January 15, 2024, at about 2:05 p.m.
“No clear information about death and survivors yet. Meanwhile, search and rescue operations are ongoing by the local divers, NSEMA desk officers, and local government officials. Updates will be forwarded as they are received,” he assured.
In November 2023, 34 persons, including 10 children, were aboard an ill-fated boat that capsized while travelling from Zangoro Bassa/Kukoki Ward terminal to Gijiwa/Kato Ward terminal in the Shiroro Local Government Area.
Giving an update on the incident, NSEMA said its findings showed that a combination of water hyacinth, strong waves and grafting trees caused the boat to capsize.
The burial of the victims – 10, among which were eight children, was held following Islamic rites.
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