Search Efforts Continue After Boat Accident in Benue State

The Benue State Emergency Management Agency (Benue-SEMA) has sent local divers to search for people missing after a boat accident on River Katsina-Ala in the Buruku Local Government Area. The agency’s Head of Information, Mr. Tema Ager, confirmed the ongoing search in a phone interview on Monday.

Ager noted that the search operation has faced challenges due to difficult conditions in the river and the presence of submerged motorcycles and other debris. So far, 125 passengers have been rescued, but more than nine individuals are still unaccounted for.

Authorities believe that around 138 people may have been on the boat at the time of the accident, although the exact number is still being confirmed. Ager explained that officials are working with survivors, victims’ relatives, and community leaders to gather accurate information to aid the search.

The ill-fated boat was also carrying 38 motorcycles, with three passengers typically associated with each motorcycle. Some figures regarding the passengers were collected from mourners and others present at the scene, while additional passengers who boarded the boat from the riverside have not yet been fully identified.

Ager stated that the investigation and search will continue until all missing persons are accounted for. He also urged river users to follow safety measures, especially the use of life jackets while traveling by boat. Although life jackets have been provided in the past, some passengers have ignored this safety precaution.

On October 3, the wooden boat encountered difficulties while crossing the river at the Buruku crossing point, leading to the tragic incident.