Kogi Boat Mishap: Death Toll Rises To 36, 40 Rescued,

By; ADAMA JOHN, Lokoja

The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) midweek, confirmed that the death toll arising from the Ibaji boat mishap in Kogi State has risen to 36, while 40 passengers have been rescued, with the life of others on the line.

The Station Head of the marine operation in Idah, Williams Isaac who disclosed this on Wednesday, said that rescue operations were still ongoing at the time of filing this report apparently in search of bodies in the river.

According to the Station Head, the victims were mainly populated by residents of Onugwa and other riverine communities in Ibaji Local Government Area of the state.

The Onugwa community with a population of over 300 people, is predominantly a farming community located on the either sides of the banks of the River Niger.

It serves as a major transit hub for people traveling to Illushi, Edo State to market their farm produce.

The tragedy occurred on Tuesday when a boat carrying about 80 passengers capsized while cruising to cross the River Niger.

Authorities confirmed that 36 lives have been lost so far, while 40 survivors were rescued by local divers and emergency responders.

Reacting to the incident, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, represented by the Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Comfort Egwaba, expressed shock and sorrow over the loss of lives.

He said the state government immediately directed relevant agencies to mobilise for rescue operations.

Governor Ododo also advised riverine residents to adopt basic safety measures while traveling as he prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased.