In a heartbreaking incident at Egbu village, located in Patigi Local Government Area of Kwara State, a devastating boat mishap has resulted in the loss of no fewer than 100 lives. Among the victims were a father and his four children.
According to reports, the tragedy unfolded on Monday when the deceased individuals were returning from a joyful marriage ceremony held at the nearby Egboti village in Niger State. As the ill-fated boat made its way back, powerful river waves struck it, causing a collision with a tree and subsequent capsizing, leading to the tragic loss of numerous lives. At the time of reporting, the recovery efforts had already discovered around 50 bodies, plunging the entire Egboti community into mourning.
Sources within the village shared details of the incident, revealing that the victims had departed from Kpada village to partake in the joyous celebration at Egboti village. It was disclosed that the boat, carrying over 300 passengers on their return journey, met its unfortunate fate in Egbu village.
Tragically, the toll of lives lost was particularly devastating, with 69 casualties from Egbu village, 36 from Gakpan village, and four from Kpada village in the Patigi council of the state.
When contacted, the state police command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Okasanmi Ajayi, confirmed the incident to Vanguard and stated that the Divisional Police Officer of Patigi council had been dispatched to gather more information regarding the incident.
He acknowledged receiving a preliminary report of a boat capsizing, claiming the lives of approximately 100 people in a village in Patigi, emphasizing that further details would be provided once additional information became available.