In a tragic incident that unfolded on Sunday afternoon, a boat mishap in the Mokwa area of Niger State has left at least 24 people dead, with an unconfirmed number of individuals still missing. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community as rescue efforts continue.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Wasiu Abiodun, confirmed the mishap but noted that the exact number of passengers on the ill-fated boat and the cause of the accident remains uncertain at this time.

He stated, “Information received from Gbajibo area of Mokwa indicated that a wooden boat conveying some passengers on board from Gbajibo waterside heading to Tungan-Mango for farming activities capsized.”

Chairman of Mokwa Local Government, Jibrim Muregi, provided further insight into the tragedy, saying, “21 dead bodies were recovered, adding that three community members of Gbajibo, Ekwa, and Yankeiade were also affected.”

He also confirmed the ongoing rescue efforts, assuring the community that authorities are doing everything possible to locate missing individuals.

This devastating incident comes just three months after a similar boat accident claimed the lives of over 100 people returning from a wedding.

As search and rescue operations continue, the community and authorities are left grappling with the heart-wrenching toll this boat mishap has taken on the lives of its residents, with hopes that the missing individuals will be found safe. Further updates on the situation will be made available as they develop.