Eleven Feared Dead in Benue Boat Capsize During Burial

On Saturday night, a tragic boat accident in Benue State resulted in the feared deaths of eleven individuals, including a pregnant woman and six children. The boat, carrying 40 passengers, capsized in the River Benue while returning from a burial ceremony in the Daududawadawa community.

Local sources, including Daniel, reported that the incident occurred between 7 PM and 8 PM during a heavy downpour accompanied by a windstorm. Nura Umar, a local official, confirmed that four bodies have been recovered so far, while divers continue to search for the remaining victims.

The deceased were returning to the Wadata community after the burial when the boat capsized halfway through the journey. Udem Edet, the state command spokesperson, stated that she had not yet received a report on the incident.

Joseph Keffi, the chairman of the Makurdi Local Government, was unreachable for comments. This incident follows a pledge by the state government in January to enforce safety measures to address frequent boat mishaps.