11 FEARED DEAD AS BOAT CARRYING MOURNERS CAPSIZES IN BENUE

11 FEARED DEAD AS BOAT CARRYING MOURNERS CAPSIZES IN BENUE

At least 11 people are feared dead after a boat conveying mourners from a burial ceremony capsized on the River Benue in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident occurred over the weekend when the boat, carrying more than 40 passengers, reportedly overturned during a heavy downpour accompanied by strong winds.

Sources said the victims were returning from a burial ceremony in Wadata community to an island settlement in the North Bank area of Makurdi when the tragedy occurred.

Eyewitnesses said the boat encountered severe weather conditions before capsizing, throwing passengers into the river and triggering panic among those on board.

Local residents and emergency responders immediately launched rescue operations, with several passengers reportedly rescued from the water.

However, fears remain that at least 11 persons may have lost their lives, although authorities are yet to confirm the exact casualty figure.

Search and rescue efforts were still ongoing at the time of filing this report, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident continue.

The incident has left the affected communities in mourning as families await information on the fate of their loved ones.