Tragedy struck in Kogi State on Tuesday evening as a boat carrying traders and community members capsized on the River Niger, leaving at least 26 people confirmed dead and several others still missing.
The ill-fated vessel, which departed from Onugwa community in Ibaji Local Government Area, was en route to Ilushi Market in Edo State when disaster struck around 4:30 pm. Witnesses said the boat was overcrowded with passengers travelling for the traditional October 1st celebrations, as well as mourners returning from a burial in Onugwa.
State Government Reacts
In a statement released early Wednesday, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, described the incident as “unfortunate and heartbreaking.”
“Reports indicate that no fewer than 26 passengers have lost their lives in this tragic accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the entire Ibaji Local Government Area during this difficult time,” Fanwo said.
He added that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo had expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to work with local authorities to provide relief and support to survivors and the affected community.
“The Governor further assured that the State Government will intensify efforts, in collaboration with federal agencies, to improve safety on our waterways.
He urged riverine communities to prioritise safety by avoiding overloading, using life jackets, and adhering to precautionary measures during water travel,” the commissioner noted.
Eyewitness Accounts
An eyewitness and farmer, James Otoga, told journalists that only five survivors had been rescued as of Tuesday night, while more victims remain trapped beneath the river.
“The boat was fully loaded with our people going to the market for the First of October celebration. So far, 20 bodies have been recovered, but many more are missing. It is the worst disaster we have ever seen,” Otoga lamented.
Local Authorities Speak
The Chairman of Ibaji LGA, Hon. Ugeh Emmanuel, described the incident as “the most disastrous in the history of the local government.”
“As I speak, we cannot give the exact number of casualties or passengers on board. The boat had not even reached Ilushi when it capsized. Most of those travelling were heading for the October 1st festival, but they met their untimely death,” Emmanuel said.
Recurring Tragedy on Nigeria’s Waterways
The incident adds to a growing list of deadly boat accidents in Kogi and other riverine states. In December 2024, a wooden boat carrying 60 passengers from the Kupa area of Lokoja to Kacha Market in Niger State capsized, claiming 19 lives.
Despite repeated government interventions, poor enforcement of safety standards, overloading, and inadequate life-saving equipment remain major causes of recurring fatalities on Nigerian waterways.
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