Six Benue Students Feared Dead as Overloaded Boat Capsizes on River

Six Benue Students Feared Dead as Overloaded Boat Capsizes on River

At least six students are feared dead following a tragic boat accident in Benue State, after an overloaded passenger boat capsized while crossing a river in the late hours of Monday.

The incident reportedly occurred along a busy inland waterway used by residents and students commuting between rural communities. Witnesses said the wooden boat, which was conveying dozens of passengers — many believed to be students returning to school — lost balance midway into the journey and overturned.

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Local sources confirmed that several passengers were rescued, while search-and-rescue operations are ongoing to locate others still missing. Survivors were said to have been rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment.

Preliminary reports blamed the accident on overloading and poor safety measures, as the boat allegedly carried far more passengers than recommended, with no life jackets provided. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the mishap and identify those responsible.

The latest tragedy has reignited concerns over unsafe river transportation in Nigeria, particularly in riverine communities where boats remain the primary means of transport due to poor road networks. Community leaders and safety advocates are again calling on government agencies to enforce strict safety regulations on inland waterways to prevent further loss of lives.

Six Benue Students Feared Dead as Overloaded Boat Capsizes on River