By Peter Duru, Makurdi
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has confirmed that a family of six was among victims of a weekend boat accident in Makurdi, Benue State, which claimed 11 lives.
The NIWA Area Manager in Makurdi, Mr. Andrew Ndahi, disclosed this after a fact-finding visit to Daudu-Dauda settlement, an island community behind the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME), where the incident occurred.
Ndahi attributed the tragedy to violations of safety regulations, including night sailing, operation during adverse weather conditions, and the use of a faulty vessel.
According to him, preliminary findings showed that the wooden boat departed at about 7 p.m., contrary to NIWA’s approved operating hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
He also said the operator ignored warnings against sailing during heavy rainfall and strong winds, despite the vessel reportedly having engine faults.
He stated that about 22 passengers were on board at the time of the incident.
Ndahi said 11 persons were rescued alive, while nine bodies had been recovered and buried, adding that one passenger was still missing as search and rescue operations continued.
He further disclosed that the boat operator had not been seen since the incident.
The NIWA official reiterated that inland waterway regulations prohibit night navigation and require operators to suspend movement during storms or severe weather conditions.
He also stressed the compulsory use of life jackets by all passengers and crew members, warning that compliance remains essential to prevent avoidable tragedies.
Ndahi added that the agency would intensify sensitisation campaigns in riverine communities to improve awareness of safety guidelines and reduce future incidents.
