Kogi State Government has confirmed that at least 26 people have died following a boat mishap on the River Niger, involving traders travelling from Ibaji Local Government Area to Ilushi Market in neighbouring Edo State.
In a statement issued early Wednesday, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, described the incident as “unfortunate” and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
“Reports indicate that the unfortunate incident has claimed the lives of not less than 26 passengers. This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, as well as the entire Ibaji Local Government Area, during this moment of grief,” Fanwo said.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo also expressed sadness over the tragedy and directed the State Emergency Management Agency to work with local authorities to provide immediate support to survivors and affected families. He further pledged that the government, in collaboration with federal agencies, would intensify efforts to improve waterway safety.
“The Governor assured that the State Government will strengthen safety measures on waterways to prevent a recurrence. He also urged riverine communities to avoid overloading boats and to always use life jackets and other precautionary measures when travelling,” the commissioner added.
Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred on Tuesday evening, September 30, when the boat, reportedly carrying dozens of passengers, departed from Onugwa community in Ibaji. It capsized before reaching its destination, leaving scores dead and several others missing.
Local farmer James Otoga told journalists that the victims were mostly traders heading to Ilushi Market for the Independence Day celebrations. “Only five survivors have been rescued, and 20 bodies have been recovered so far, while more of our people remain lifeless beneath the River Niger,” he said.
Ibaji Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ugeh Emmanuel, described the mishap as the worst in the history of the area. “Nobody can authoritatively state the actual number of casualties or the number of people on board from their departure point. Most of the victims were travelling to Ilushi for the First of October celebration before they met their untimely death,” he said.
The tragedy adds to a string of fatal boat accidents in Kogi and other riverine states. On December 23, 2024, a wooden boat carrying 60 passengers from Kupa in Lokoja Local Government Area to Kacha Market in Niger State capsized, killing at least 19 people.
