At least six people are missing after a boat carrying more than 70 mourners capsized on the Buruku River in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident reportedly occurred around 11am on Saturday as the mourners, who had attended a burial ceremony in the area, were returning to their destination.
According to the Chairman of Buruku LGA, Raymond Zege, the boat was reportedly overloaded when its engine developed a fault. As passengers struggled to remain afloat, a rescue boat approached, but strong waves caused the boat to overturn and sink.
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Zege said about six people were yet to be accounted for, while efforts were ongoing to locate them.
The Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Denis Iyaghigba, confirmed receiving preliminary reports of the incident and directed boat operators and their union to join the search and rescue operation.
Authorities have urged the public, particularly families of those involved, to remain calm as rescue efforts continue.
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