Atleat six more bodies have been recovered from the October 1 boat tragedy in Niger State, bringing the death toll to 42, according to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency.
The Director General of NSEMAAbdullahi Baba-Arah confirmed on Friday that rescue efforts are ongoing.
“From 6 pm yesterday to 10 am this morning, six more bodies were recovered, bringing the total to 42,” Baba-Arah said in a statement.
The tragic incident occurred when a wooden canoe, overloaded with more than 300 passengers, capsized in the Gbajibo community while en route to a Maulud celebration.
Many of the passengers were women and children from the Mundi community, heading for the religious event.
“More than 150 passengers are still missing,” Baba-Arah explained. “We are working tirelessly with local divers, volunteers, and the State Ministry of Transport to recover more bodies and hopefully locate survivors.”
The search and rescue operation is being led by NSEMA in collaboration with the Mokwa Local Government Emergency Committee and other community volunteers.
Baba-Arah added, “We appreciate the bravery of the local divers and community volunteers, and the efforts will continue until all victims are accounted for.”
The tragedy has deeply affected the local communities, as many families await news of their loved ones.
Baba-Arah promised, “The public will be updated as soon as more information is available.”
As the search continues, officials are urging caution in the use of boats during travel, especially during the rainy season when rivers swell and become more dangerous.
