24 CONFIRMED DEAD, SEVERAL MISSING IN NIGER STATE BOAT MISHAP

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On Sunday, tragedy struck Niger State when a boat sank in the Mokwa region of the state.

As of the time this report was filed, neither the number of passengers aboard the boat nor the cause of the disaster had been verified.

Jibrim Muregi, the chairman of Mokwa Local Government, verified the tragedy to Channels Television over the phone and stated that rescue attempts are still ongoing.

He added that three members of the communities of Gbajibo, Ekwa, and Yankeiade were also impacted and that 21 dead bodies had been found.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the mishap.

He however said available information at the police disposal suggest that 13 people lost their lives.

“Information received from Gbajibo area of Mokwa indicated that a wooden boat conveying some passengers on board from Gbajibo water side heading to Tungan-Mango for farming activities capsized,” the police spokesman said.

“On receiving the report, DPO Mokwa Div mobilised police teams including marine police to the scene, in collaboration with local divers and so far thirteen persons confirmed dead as search and rescue operation is ongoing. Further development will be made public.”

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the mishap.

He however said available information at the police disposal suggest that 13 people lost their lives.