A tragic boat accident claimed the lives of at least 20 individuals on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, in the Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The vessel, which departed from Onugwa, was en route to Ilushi market in Edo State when it overturned between the Okpu and Odumomo communities along the River Niger.
Rescue divers have recovered 20 bodies so far, while several passengers remain unaccounted for. Only six people have been confirmed alive following the incident.
According to eyewitnesses, the majority of those who perished were women and children traveling to Ilushi to purchase goods ahead of Nigeria’s Independence Day festivities. One local family reportedly lost eight members in the catastrophe.
“The boat left Onugwa early in the morning but capsized shortly after departure. We have six survivors, but many are still missing,” stated Joseph Umonu, a community leader from Onyedega, the administrative center of Ibaji LGA.
Further reports indicate that some passengers had attended a funeral in Onugwa before boarding the boat back to Ilushi. None of these individuals have been identified among the survivors or recovered victims.
Community members confirmed that search and rescue operations continued late into Tuesday, with divers thoroughly scanning the river for additional victims.
SP William Aya, spokesperson for the Kogi State Police Command, verified the incident and mentioned that authorities are investigating whether the accident occurred within Kogi or Edo State’s jurisdiction along the river.
“The passengers were reportedly heading to Ilushi market in Edo when the accident took place. Our officers are still collecting information at the scene,” Aya explained.
This heartbreaking event has plunged the Ibaji communities into deep sorrow as families anxiously await updates on their missing relatives.