Search and rescue efforts are continuing in Benue State for about 20 people reported missing after a boat capsized at the Buruku crossing point of River Katsina-Ala.
The incident occurred on Saturday, October 3, 2026, when the boat was reportedly transporting passengers returning from a burial ceremony.
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According to reports, the boat’s engine developed a fault midway across the river, while a strong water current caused the vessel to lose balance, swerve and eventually capsize.
The boat was said to have been carrying more than 30 motorcycles, some of which are also yet to be recovered.
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The Benue State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dennis Iyaghigba, confirmed the incident and said search teams were making efforts to recover the bodies of those feared drowned.
The Commissioner said the exact number of passengers on board was yet to be established, as authorities were still working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Iyaghigba announced the indefinite suspension of boat operations at the affected crossing point pending the outcome of an investigation into the incident.
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He said the investigation would determine the actual cause of the boat accident and establish the number of people who were on board at the time of the incident.
Meanwhile, search operations are continuing at the river crossing as authorities work to locate the missing passengers and recover the motorcycles believed to have gone down with the boat.