Alh Iliyasu Onechojon
Tragedy struck on the River Benue near Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, as at least 20 people, mostly women and children, are feared dead following a boat accident.
According to eyewitnesses, the boat, which was carrying passengers from the Agatu Local Government Area to the neighboring town of Otukpo, capsized due to strong currents and overloading.
“It was a terrible sight to behold,” said one eyewitness.
“The boat was carrying too many passengers, and the currents were too strong. We tried to rescue as many people as we could, but unfortunately, many were swept away by the currents.”
The Agatu Local Government Chairman, confirmed the incident and expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident,” he said.
“We urge the people of Agatu to remain calm and to pray for the souls of the departed. We will do everything in our power to support the families of the victims.”
The Benue State Government has also reacted to the incident, promising to provide support to the affected families. “We are shocked and saddened by this tragic incident,” said a statement from the Benue State Government.
“We will provide support to the affected families and work to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.”
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of boat transportation in the state, with many calling for more stringent safety measures to be put in place. As the search and rescue operations continue, the people of Agatu and Benue State as a whole are in mourning, praying for the souls of the departed and seeking comfort in this difficult time.