Safety Alert Issued After Nine Die in River Benue Boat Capsize

Operation Whirl Stroke has warned mariners, boat operators and riverine communities along the River Benue to exercise caution. Rising water levels, strong currents and turbulence have increased the risk of accidents. On June 13, a passenger boat carrying 43 people from Kwanta Wadata to Daudu capsized between 7pm and 8pm, resulting in nine fatalities. The increase in water volume is attributed to heavy rainfall. To prevent further tragedies, operators must enforce life jacket use, carry at least one life buoy per vessel and avoid overloading. Essential emergency gear—torch lights, spare spark plugs and tarpaulins—should always be on board. Night sailing remains banned from 6pm to 6:30am. Boat crews should register with their unions and carry valid ID. Communities are urged to report suspicious activities. Defaulters will face sanctions under existing regulations.

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