The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the rescue of 49 persons and the recovery of three bodies following a tragic boat accident that occurred on River Benue in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
Details of the Incident
According to a statement issued on Monday, the accident, which took place on Saturday, December 15, around 7:00 PM, involved a boat carrying 76 passengers. The mishap occurred when the boat’s driver, unaware of a submerged tree in the river, accidentally navigated into it, causing the boat to tip over and capsize.
The passengers were said to be returning home from the Ocholonya Market, a major economic hub in the region. The market regularly draws traders from several communities in Agatu and neighbouring Nasarawa State.
Rescue and Recovery Efforts
Out of the 76 passengers onboard:
- 49 individuals have been successfully rescued.
- 3 dead bodies have been recovered so far.
- 1 passenger managed to swim to safety.
- 23 individuals are still missing.
The agency noted that most of the passengers were from Odenyi Magaji and other surrounding communities in Nasarawa State. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, as emergency response agencies work tirelessly to locate the missing passengers.
NEMA Collaboration with Stakeholders
NEMA highlighted its collaboration with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA), local authorities, and community divers to expedite the rescue mission. Additionally, the agency revealed that it has established contact with the Nigerian Navy to provide further support for the search and rescue operations.
“NEMA is working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Navy, to ensure the rescue mission is successful. We are committed to providing all necessary support to locate the missing persons,” the statement said.
Nigeria Governors’ Forum Reacts
In response to the incident, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed condolences to the people and government of Benue State. In a statement signed by its chairman, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the NGF mourned the lives lost in the accident and commended the efforts of emergency responders in rescuing 49 individuals.
“We send our commiserations to His Excellency, Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia and the people of the state on the sad incident. We beseech God Almighty to repose the souls of those who died in the incident,” the statement read.
The NGF further applauded the swift response of NEMA, BSEMA, and other local stakeholders involved in the ongoing operations.
Ongoing Search and Next Steps
Rescue operations remain active as authorities intensify efforts to locate the remaining missing passengers. Community divers, emergency personnel, and the Nigerian Navy are working together to ensure no stone is left unturned in the search for survivors and victims.
NEMA also reiterated the importance of improved safety measures for boat operators and passengers, particularly in riverine communities where water transportation is a primary means of travel. The agency urged boat drivers to adopt precautionary measures and ensure compliance with safety regulations to avoid future tragedies.
Conclusion
The River Benue accident underscores the pressing need for stricter safety protocols in waterway transportation. While the successful rescue of 49 passengers provides some relief, the loss of lives and ongoing search for missing individuals remain a somber reminder of the risks associated with poorly regulated boat operations.
NEMA has pledged its continued commitment to supporting victims and their families, as well as strengthening measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
