By Milcah Tanimu
A tragic boat accident in Niger State, Nigeria, has resulted in the confirmed death of at least 26 people, with several others missing. The incident occurred in the Mokwa Local Government Area of the state.
The boat capsized after encountering severe weather conditions on the River Niger. The victims were primarily women and children from four communities—New Gbajibo, Ekwa, Yankeide—who were en route to their farms in Old Gbajibo when the accident happened.
Mr. Jibrin Muregi, Chairman of Mokwa Local Government Area, has confirmed the incident and reported that rescue efforts are underway, with 21 bodies recovered from the river so far.
Mr. Garba Saliu, Acting Director of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, also verified the accident, noting that Marine Policemen have been deployed to the area to search for other passengers from the ill-fated canoe.
