Tension in Rivers Community as Passenger Boat Capsizes on Waterways

A passenger boat en route to Abonnema in Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State capsized on a busy waterway, causing panic among commuters on board.

The incident occurred mid-journey when the vessel suddenly overturned, sending passengers into a state of fear and confusion. Witnesses said there were frantic shouts as the boat went under, raising concerns of a possible tragedy.

However, no lives were lost, as nearby boat operators swiftly came to the rescue. According to eyewitness accounts, fellow river transporters quickly mobilised and successfully rescued all passengers before the situation escalated.

“People started shouting when the boat capsized, but other boat drivers immediately moved in to assist,” one witness said. “Everyone was rescued before it turned into a serious disaster.”

The incident has renewed concerns over water transport safety, especially against the backdrop of previous fatal boat accidents in the country.

In October, SaharaReporters reported a tragic boat mishap on the River Niger in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, where scores of passengers were feared dead, with many bodies reportedly trapped underwater and others declared missing.

The Chairman of Ibaji Local Government Area, Hon. Ugeh Emmanuel, had described that incident as the worst disaster in the council’s history, noting in a telephone interview with journalists that the actual number of casualties remained unclear at the time.