Several passengers travelling from Asaba, Delta State, to Onitsha, Anambra State, are feared dead after a boat carrying them across the River Niger reportedly capsized.
The incident happened on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, as passengers reportedly used the boat as an alternative means of transportation following the closure of the First Niger Bridge.
The bridge, which connects Asaba and Onitsha, was closed for emergency repair works, making movement between the two cities difficult for commuters and traders.
Since the closure, some travellers have reportedly resorted to walking through the bridge, while others use motorcycles or the Second Niger Bridge to reach their destinations.
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Some passengers also began using boats to cross the River Niger because the option was reportedly cheaper. Boat operators were said to charge about ₦500 per passenger, while some motorcycle operators charged around ₦1,000.
The boat involved in the incident was reportedly carrying passengers from Asaba towards Onitsha when it capsized.
Among those reportedly involved were a couple identified as Mr. and Mrs. Victor. Another victim was identified as Ikenna, while three others were suspected to be minors aged between 12 and 16.
Videos from the scene reportedly showed bodies recovered from the river and placed along the riverbank.
However, the exact number of passengers aboard the boat and the confirmed number of deaths remained unclear as of the time of filing the report.
No recognised authority had officially confirmed the incident or released an official casualty figure, although residents of Onitsha said the boat accident occurred.
The incident has raised concerns over the dangers faced by commuters who have resorted to alternative means of crossing the River Niger following the closure of the First Niger Bridge.
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