At least 76 people died after a boat sank in the southern state of Anambra, according to a statement from President Muhammadu Buhari.
The boat, which was cruising down the River Niger, had about 85 people on board. Anambra is one of 29 Nigerian states that have experienced severe flooding since the start of the rainy season. There are 36 states in total.
“The boat carrying (reportedly) 85 people is said to have capsized due to flooding in the Ogbaru area of the state, and emergency services have confirmed a death toll of 76.”
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for the safety of all, as well as for the welfare of the family members of the victims of this tragic accident,” the statement added.
According to Thickman Tanimu, a representative of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), an investigation has been started to find “other causes of the occurrence” besides flooding.
Nigeria’s National Inland Waterways Authority and the NEMA have launched rescue and recovery operations in Anambra in the wake of the catastrophe.
A review of safety regulations for the nation’s water transportation system has also been ordered by the President, who further emphasized the need for emergency services to take all reasonable steps to locate the missing.
Further urging government organizations to “examine the safety measures on these transport ships to ensure that such incidents are avoided in the future,” President Buhari said
In Nigeria, boating mishaps are frequent. They frequently involve overcrowded ships, excessive speed, shoddy upkeep, and contempt for traffic regulations.
