Benue Boat Tragedy: Six Reported Dead as Overloaded Vessel Capsizes on Buruku River.

Benue Boat Tragedy: Six Reported Dead as Overloaded Vessel Capsizes on Buruku River.

At least six people have reportedly died after a wooden boat carrying mourners capsized at the Buruku crossing point on the River Katsina Ala in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident occurred at about 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as the passengers were returning from a burial ceremony. Reports indicated that more than 70 mourners were aboard the vessel, alongside over 30 motorcycles. Most of the passengers were reportedly from Mbayon in Gboko Local Government Area.

According to Buruku Local Government Chairman, Raymond Zege, the boat developed an engine fault while on the river. The situation reportedly triggered panic among passengers as they attempted to keep the vessel afloat. The boat subsequently encountered strong waves and capsized before another vessel reportedly sent to assist could reach them.

The Benue State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Denis Iyaghigba, confirmed the mishap and said preliminary information suggested that a strong water current swept the boat towards an abandoned barge at a bend in the river, contributing to the accident. He directed boat operators and their union to support the search-and-rescue operation and urged families of those aboard to await verified information.

The casualty figures have changed as rescue operations progressed. While Premium Times reported on October 4 that six people had died, Daily Trust later reported that five bodies had been recovered and six passengers remained missing. News subsequently reported that four bodies had been recovered and nine people were still missing. The differing figures underscore that the final casualty count remained subject to ongoing recovery and verification at the time of reporting.

The tragedy has also renewed concerns over safety compliance along Benue’s waterways. Zege said life jackets had been provided for commuters at the crossing but acknowledged difficulties in enforcing their use, as some passengers reportedly resisted wearing them. Earlier in 2026, another boat accident at the Buruku crossing reportedly claimed the lives of six students, further highlighting persistent safety concerns on the route.

Authorities have continued search and rescue efforts while investigations seek to establish the circumstances surrounding the latest accident. The incident adds to growing concerns about overloading, vessel safety, enforcement of maritime regulations and the continued dependence of riverine communities on waterways for transportation.