The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has confirmed that 36 people have now died in the boat accident that occurred in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State.
About 80 people were on board the boat, which capsized on Tuesday while conveying passengers from Akpu and Odumomo settlements to Ilushi in Edo State.
According to NIWA, 40 passengers were rescued, while search and rescue efforts are still ongoing.
NIWA’s Head of Idah Station, Williams Isaac, who gave the update during NTA’s News Xtra, said most of the victims were from Onugwa and other riverine communities in Ibaji.
Women, children, and mourners returning from a local burial ceremony were among the passengers, Isaac explained.
He added that in order to assist the impacted communities and recover additional victims, NIWA is collaborating with regional emergency teams and divers.
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