At least 76 people have been reported dead in boating accidents in Nigeria.
A boat carrying at least 80 people capsized in Ogbaru area of Anambra, southeastern state on Friday.
Most of the dead were women and children. They were trying to reach a safe place after being flooded. News BBC.
President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the families of those killed in the tragic accident.
He ordered a review of the shipping system across the country. Emergency services have also been asked to do everything for the missing.
Buhari called on government agencies to check safety protocols on these transport ferries to ensure such incidents are avoided in the future.
According to local media reports, they were on their way to Nko market in Ogbakuba before the boat capsized. The boat’s engine malfunctioned and hit a bridge before sinking, officials said.
“The water level is too high and too risky for a smooth search and rescue operation,” Thickman Tanimu, the National Emergency Management Agency’s southeast coordinator, told AFP news agency.
Anambra Governor Charles Soludo said the accident was a blow to both residents and the state government. He expressed his condolences to the families of the victims.
Boating accidents are relatively common in Nigeria, although most are attributed to overloading or poor safety systems.
(October 10/FA)
