Tragedy struck as a boat carrying numerous individuals capsized on the River Niger, leading to an estimated loss of dozens of lives and leaving several others missing.
Reports indicate that the passengers were returning from a wedding celebration when the incident occurred.
The ill-fated vessel had been en route from Niger state to Kwara state on Monday, as confirmed by local authorities. The exact cause of the accident remains unknown at this time.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara state released a statement expressing deep concern, stating that numerous casualties were feared and many individuals were still unaccounted for.
The Emir of Pategi, the area where the incident transpired, has sadly confirmed the deaths of over 150 people.
Governor AbdulRazaq extended his sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and emphasized that search and rescue efforts were ongoing to locate any possible survivors.
Regrettably, such tragic accidents are not uncommon in Nigeria. Just last month, 14 individuals lost their lives when a boat capsized in the nearby Sokoto state.