At least 20 people, mostly women and children, are feared dead after a boat mishap on the River Benue on Saturday near Ocholonya in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State. The victims were reportedly returning to Doma in Nasarawa State after attending a market day in Ocholonya village when their wooden boat capsized.

Community leader Adanyi Adanu confirmed the tragedy, explaining that the boat, carrying women and children, was returning to Odenyi-Doma in Nasarawa State when it capsized, drowning everyone aboard. Agatu Local Government Chairman Melvin James also confirmed the incident, saying reports suggested over 20 people had died. Local divers have recovered some bodies, but the exact number of casualties is still uncertain.

James added that efforts are being made to coordinate with Nasarawa State officials to support the affected families. The Nigerian Navy has also been contacted to assist in the rescue operations. While some reports claim 20 bodies have been recovered, others suggest several people are still missing.