Nigeria: Devastating Incident Claims Lives of 20 Fishermen in Taraba’s River
By Ahmad Hadizat Omayoza, Mamos Nigeria
Tragedy struck as more than 20 fishermen lost their lives when their boat capsized on the Benue River. The ill-fated incident involved fishermen from Ibi and Gindin Doruwa in Wukari Local Government Area of the state.
Jidda Suleiman, Taraba State Water Transportation Chairman, confirmed the mishap, revealing that it occurred between Anyeci area of Wukari council in Taraba State and Chinkai axis of Benue State. The fishermen, in search of greener pastures, had embarked on a journey to Kwara State, meeting a devastating accident along the way.
Suleiman lamented the tradition of fishermen traveling for fishing expeditions, expressing sorrow over this year’s sorrowful turn of events. He urged both state and Federal Governments to equip jetties with life jackets to prevent future tragedies.
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State expressed sadness over the incident, emphasizing the need to address recurring boat mishaps. In a statement by his Special Adviser, Emmanuel Bello, the governor assured that measures were being taken to prevent further waterways tragedies. Governor Kefas pledged to personally visit affected areas, engage with local stakeholders, and implement safety measures, including the use of life jackets.
