Over 300 Feared Dead in Nigeria Ferry Disaster
October 2nd, 2024
Niger State, Nigeria – A ferry carrying over 300 passengers capsized on Jebba Lake in Gbajibo, Niger State, Nigeria, on Tuesday, according to a statement released by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
The overloaded vessel, en route to Gbajibo for a religious Maulud celebration and primarily carrying women and children, overturned in the lake.
While over 150 survivors have been rescued, the death toll is expected to rise significantly, with at least 60 bodies recovered so far. Rescue operations are ongoing, but hopes of finding more survivors are fading.
The local government chairman, in a statement reported by Channels TV, confirmed the grim toll and ongoing search efforts. SEMA and other agencies are leading the rescue operation.
A Pattern of Tragedy
This tragic incident highlights a recurring problem in Nigeria. In a similar incident in September 2023, a ferry carrying 50 passengers capsized, resulting in 24 fatalities. Overloading, poor maintenance, and unfavorable weather conditions are often cited as the primary causes of such disasters.
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