Bayelsa, Benue, Katsina: Tragic Incidents Across Nigeria Result in 64 Deaths; See Numbers of Each State
In the past 72 hours, Nigeria has witnessed a series of tragedies leading to the loss of 64 lives. The most recent tragedy occurred in Benue State, where 30 individuals were killed during a clash between local militias on Thursday.
In Bayelsa State, rescue teams have recovered 18 bodies from a boat accident, while another incident in Jigawa State resulted in the drowning of five individuals. Additionally, a naval officer lost his life during a rescue operation for 59 passengers aboard a distressed dredging vessel in Rivers State’s Okpobo River.
The Benue attack took place in Ayati village, Ukum Local Government Area, where local militia clashes were reported. Information and Culture Commissioner Matthew Aboh confirmed the death toll of 30, with ongoing recovery efforts. He attributed the violence to ongoing power struggles between rival militias.
Eyewitnesses reported that around 60 gunmen attacked Ayati village, moving through the area on motorcycles and targeting residents. This is the second attack on the village in a month, with the first incident claiming eight lives.
Governor Hyacinth Alia expressed his sorrow over the attack and urged improved security measures to protect vulnerable communities.
In Bayelsa State, rescue workers recovered 18 bodies from a boat accident on Ezetu 1 community river. The boat, carrying 51 passengers, exploded and sank. Governor Douye Diri extended condolences to the victims’ families, while the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) initiated an investigation.
A separate canoe accident in Jigawa State claimed five lives, with 15 others still missing. The incident occurred in Nahuce, Taura Local Government Area.
In Rivers State, the Nigerian Navy successfully rescued 59 people from a sinking dredging vessel in the turbulent Okpobo River, though Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza tragically lost his life during the operation.
Lastly, a road collision in Kaduna State between a Golf salon car and a truck resulted in 11 fatalities and four injuries. The accident was reported to have occurred early in the morning, with preliminary investigations indicating that the Golf car was at fault.
