BURUKU, BENUE STATE — A boat carrying more than 150 passengers and 39 motorcycles has capsized on the River Buruku in Benue State, leaving one person confirmed dead and two others hospitalized.

The incident occurred on the River Buruku while the newly constructed boat was transporting passengers and motorcycles.

Information available to Benue Info-pedia indicates that more than 150 people were aboard the vessel when it capsized. The boat was also carrying 39 motorcycles.

The accident prompted rescue efforts after several passengers were initially feared missing.

According to the information received by Benue Info-pedia, 11 persons reported missing have been rescued, while one person has been confirmed dead. Two other victims were rescued and taken to hospital for medical attention.

The identities of the deceased and injured victims were not immediately available at the time of publication.

The circumstances that led to the capsizing were also not immediately established. It remains unclear whether the incident was caused by overloading, water conditions, mechanical failure, cargo distribution or another factor. Benue Info-pedia will not attribute a cause until it is confirmed by the relevant authorities or supported by credible eyewitness evidence.

The reported number of passengers and motorcycles aboard the vessel raises important safety questions, particularly regarding the boat's capacity and the manner in which passengers and motorcycles were loaded and secured.

However, those questions require official clarification.

River transportation remains an important means of movement for communities located along waterways in Benue State. For many residents, boats provide access to markets, farms, communities and other destinations where road transportation may be difficult or unavailable.

The River Buruku incident therefore goes beyond the immediate rescue operation. It also highlights the importance of documenting safety conditions around water transportation, including boat capacity, life jackets and other safety equipment, passenger manifests, operator qualifications, loading practices and emergency response arrangements.

Authorities are expected to provide further details on the incident and clarify whether anyone remains unaccounted for.

Benue Info-pedia is also seeking confirmation from relevant emergency and waterway authorities on the number of people aboard the vessel, the confirmed casualty figures and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

This report will be updated as verified information becomes available.

Benue Info-pedia | Inform. Verify. Explain. Document.