60 bodies recovered, many still missing after boat capsize in Niger State

At least 60 bodies have been recovered following a tragic boat accident on the Gbajibo River in Niger State where a vessel carrying approximately 300 passengers capsized.

The incident occurred last night near Mokwa Local Government Area as the boat travelled from Mundi to Gbajibo for the annual Maulud celebration.

According to Abubakar Dakani, Press Secretary to the Mokwa Council Chairman, the boat capsized in the notorious river on the evening of October 1.

Council Chairman Abdullahi Muregi confirmed the recovery of around 60 bodies, while 10 survivors have been rescued.

Rescue operations, led by the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, NSEMA, and local volunteers, are ongoing to search for the remaining missing passengers.

Abdullahi Baba-Arah, Director-General of NSEMA, stated that 150 people were rescued shortly after the mishap, with many still unaccounted for. Most of the passengers were women and children heading to the Maulud celebration.

The cause of the accident remains unknown, but officials from NSEMA, along with the state Ministry of Transport and local emergency teams, are monitoring the search and rescue efforts closely.

This incident comes amid increased reports of boat accidents and floods affecting communities in Niger State, raising concerns about safety on local waterways.