36 individuals have now lost their lives in the boat disaster that happened in Kogi State’s Ibaji Local Government Area, according to confirmation from the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).
The boat capsized Tuesday while transporting people from the communities of Akpu and Odumomo to Ilushi in Edo State, carrying about 80 persons.
While search and rescue operations continue, 40 people were rescued, according to NIWA.
According to Williams Isaac, Head of NIWA’s Idah Station, who provided the information on NTA’s News Xtra, the majority of the victims came from Onugwa and other riverine communities in Ibaji.
According to Isaac, the passengers included mourners coming from a local burial ceremony, ladies, and children.
He also gave the assurance that NIWA is assisting the impacted areas and recovering additional victims by collaborating with local rescue teams and divers.
