Six Drowned As Boat Capsizes In Benue River

Six people, mostly students, have drowned after a boat capsized at the Buruku River crossing point in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, prompting an emergency response from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to strengthen safety measures across riverine communities dependent on water transport.

During a sympathy visit and on-the-spot assessment on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, officials outlined plans to improve the protection of lives and property at the Buruku crossing point and similar locations across the state.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Dennis Iyaighgba, said the visit was aimed at consoling the families of the victims and assessing the situation firsthand. He described the incident as deeply tragic and assured residents that concrete steps would be taken to prevent a recurrence.

According to him, the joint intervention by BSEMA and the Ministry followed the governor’s directive to conduct a fact-finding mission and submit a comprehensive report for immediate action.

He added that safety protocols would be fully enforced, including strict adherence to ferry operation regulations and the compulsory use of safety equipment.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of BSEMA, Sir James Iorpuu, represented by the Programme Manager for IDPs Operations, Mr. Orseer Gaius Zege, described the incident as unfortunate and pledged stronger regulatory and institutional oversight to ensure ferry operators and passengers comply with safety standards, particularly the mandatory use of life jackets.

In his remarks, the District Head of Binev, Chief Dennis Nyitse Hagh, commended Governor Alia for demonstrating solidarity with the affected families and taking proactive steps to safeguard residents who rely on water transportation.

A minute of silence was observed in honour of the six victims. The delegation included the Director General of the Bureau for Homeland Security, Retired Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan; the Special Adviser on Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Paul Bebe; and other government officials.