A tragic boat accident on the River Benue, near Ocholonya in the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, has resulted in the loss of many lives. The incident, which primarily involved women and children, has left the local community in shock and raised widespread concerns.
The victims were reportedly returning to Doma in Nasarawa State after visiting the market in Ocholonya village on Saturday when their wooden boat capsized. Local sources indicate that the boat was transporting traders—mostly women and children—back to the Odenyi area of Nasarawa State when the disaster struck.
A local resident, Adanyi, provided further details to journalists in Makurdi. He explained that Saturday is the designated market day in Ocholonya, which explains the presence of so many traders on the boat. The ill-fated journey was meant to bring them back home after completing their market activities.
On Sunday, Melvin James, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, spoke with Daily Trust and confirmed that the victims were from the Apochi and Odenyi communities in Doma, Nasarawa State. “I have been informed about the accident, and reports suggest that over 20 people might have lost their lives. Local divers have been working to recover the bodies, but I am awaiting a formal update to confirm the exact number,” James said.
The chairman assured the public that efforts were underway to coordinate with officials from Nasarawa State in providing support for the grieving families. Additionally, he mentioned that the Nigerian Navy had been contacted to assist with the ongoing rescue and recovery operations.
At the time of this report, attempts to reach Catherine Anene, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, were unsuccessful, as her phone was unavailable.
