The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 11 people following a tragic boat accident on the River Benue, which claimed 20 lives in the Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The accident occurred on Saturday night when a wooden canoe carrying traders to Odenyi in Nasarawa State capsized after striking a tree mid-journey.
The traders, who had just concluded their business at the Ocholonya market in Agatu LGA, embarked on the trip around 8 p.m. Reports suggest the canoe was overloaded, and despite warnings to reduce the load, passengers were eager to return home and refused to disembark.
Superintendent Catherine Anene, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the incident, stating that 20 bodies have been recovered so far. She added that rescue efforts are ongoing, and 11 individuals have been rescued alive.
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