The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that 24 passengers were rescued from the recent boat mishap in Kogi State.
In a statement on Thursday, the agency disclosed that 42 people were still missing as search and rescue operations continued.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when a boat carrying about 80 passengers capsized on the River Niger. The vessel had left Onugwa community in Ibaji Local Government Area and was en route to Olushi village before it sank.
“The unfortunate mishap has claimed several lives and left dozens missing,” NEMA said in its update.
The Director General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, has directed the Abuja Operations Office to assist with rescue operations.
Rescue Operations Ongoing
According to NEMA, 14 corpses have so far been recovered while efforts are underway to locate the missing. Community divers are working alongside official responders, including NEMA, KOSEMA, NIWA, the Red Cross, Civil Defence, and the Fire Service.
NEMA further stated that “periodic updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
The Head of Abuja Operations Office, Zakari Abubakar, also paid a condolence visit to the Onugwa traditional ruler.
On Wednesday, the Kogi State Government confirmed that at least 26 passengers had died in the accident. Commissioner for Information Kingsley Fanwo described the tragedy as “a heartbreaking loss” and conveyed Governor Usman Ododo’s condolences.
“The Government of Kogi State stands with the people of Ibaji LGA in this moment of grief,” the statement added.
Governor Ododo directed state agencies to provide support to victims’ families and to strengthen safety measures on the state’s waterways.
Both NEMA and the state government stressed the importance of strict safety compliance, urging riverine communities to avoid boat overloading and to ensure passengers wear life jackets during trips.