The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has announced the recovery of 22 bodies following a tragic boat accident that occurred between Baro and Akwanu communities in Agaie Local Government Area of Niger State. The incident happened in the early hours of Thursday, November 28, 2024, around 2:00 am.
According to a statement issued by NSEMA’s Director General, Abdullahi Baba Arah, the boat, carrying nearly 50 passengers, was traveling from Ebe Community in Kogi State to Katcha market when it capsized.
“So far, 22 bodies have been recovered, and eight people have been rescued alive,” Arah said, attributing the progress to the swift response from community volunteers, local divers, and the Agaie Local Government Emergency Committee.
He further disclosed that among the recovered bodies, 18 were from Kogi State and four were from Akwanu community in Niger State.
Search and rescue operations are still underway to locate any remaining passengers. Arah expressed gratitude to the volunteers for their courageous efforts and assured the public that NSEMA will continue to oversee the rescue mission.
The cause of the mishap remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing.