Six people, mostly students, drowned after a boat capsized at Buruku River in Benue State, prompting emergency safety measures by the government

At least six people, most of them students, have died after a boat capsized at the Buruku River crossing point in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.

Also read: Osimhen Warns Man City Ahead of Crucial UCL Clash

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, January 18, 2026, and has prompted an emergency response from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to strengthen safety measures in riverine communities reliant on water transportation.

During a sympathy visit and on-the-spot assessment on Wednesday, officials outlined plans to improve the safety of lives and property at the Buruku crossing point and similar locations across the state.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Dennis Iyaighgba, described the incident as deeply tragic.

He said the visit was aimed at consoling the families of the victims and assessing the situation firsthand.

According to him, the joint intervention by BSEMA and the ministry followed a directive from the governor to conduct a fact-finding mission and submit a comprehensive report for immediate action.

He assured residents that concrete steps would be taken to prevent a recurrence.

Iyaighgba added that safety protocols would be strictly enforced, including compliance with ferry operation regulations and the compulsory use of safety equipment such as life jackets.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of BSEMA, Sir James Iorpuu—represented by the Programme Manager for IDPs Operations, Mr. Orseer Gaius Zege—pledged stronger regulatory and institutional oversight to ensure ferry operators and passengers adhere to safety standards.

The District Head of Binev, Chief Dennis Nyitse Hagh, commended Governor Alia for showing solidarity with the bereaved families and taking proactive steps to protect residents who depend on river transport.

Also read: Osimhen Warns Man City Ahead of Crucial UCL Clash

A minute of silence was observed in honour of the six victims. The delegation included the Director General of the Bureau for Homeland Security, Retired Air Commodore Jacob Gbamwuan; the Special Adviser on Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Paul Bebe; and other government officials.