At least 54 bodies have been recovered following a tragic boat accident involving around 200 traders in Kogi State, officials confirmed on Saturday.
The Head of Operations for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Kogi State, Justin Uwazuruonye, disclosed the figure. “The recovered bodies as of today, according to NEMA, the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, and the Red Cross, total 54. Unfortunately, none of the passengers wore life jackets,” Uwazuruonye said.
The incident occurred during a nighttime journey, with no manifest available to determine the exact number of passengers onboard, further complicating rescue and recovery efforts.
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) confirmed the accident, explaining that the traders were traveling to a market in Niger State when the boat capsized along the Dambo-Ebuchi section of the River Niger.
Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, noting that most of the victims were women, petty traders, and artisans engaged in legitimate business activities.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismail Isah, the governor highlighted the growing risks on the waterways linking Kogi and Niger States. “The waterway is becoming increasingly dangerous due to frequent boat accidents,” Ododo said.
He called for interagency collaboration to enhance safety and prevent future tragedies. “Efforts should be made to implement stricter safety measures and improve emergency response coordination,” he urged.
The governor also commiserated with the families of the victims and pledged support for the injured, promising that the state government would assist them during their recovery.
This tragic accident has once again underscored the urgent need for improved waterway safety regulations and enforcement to protect lives.
