Wooden boat capsizes in Niger State, claims multiple lives
A tragic boat accident has claimed multiple lives in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, after a wooden boat capsized in River Shiroro on Saturday afternoon.
The incident occurred at about 2:30 p.m. when the ill-fated boat, carrying both passengers and goods, was en route to the weekly Saturday market in Zumba. The boat had taken off from Guni, a riverine community in Munya Local Government Area, but capsized just minutes into the journey.
Eyewitnesses say the boat reportedly struck a submerged tree and broke into two, throwing its occupants into the river. Among the victims were women and children.
As of the time of filing this report, the exact number of casualties remains unclear. However, local divers and officers of the Marine Police have mobilized to the scene, conducting frantic search and rescue operations in a bid to recover bodies and possibly rescue survivors.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
