Tragic Benue Boat Mishap: 20 Dead, 11 Rescued

The Benue State Police Command has reported a devastating boat accident on the River Benue in the Agatu Local Government Area (LGA), leaving 20 people dead and 11 others rescued.

The unfortunate incident occurred on Saturday night when a wooden canoe, overloaded with traders returning to Nasarawa State after a market day at Ocholonya in Agatu LGA, collided with a submerged tree in the river.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the passengers, eager to return home after trading, ignored warnings about the boat’s unsafe condition. The mishap occurred around 8 p.m., further emphasizing the risks associated with late-night travel on overcrowded watercraft.

Superintendent Catherine Anene, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the recovery of 20 bodies and revealed that search-and-rescue efforts are ongoing. So far, 11 survivors have been rescued alive, and authorities are working to prevent similar incidents in the future.