Benue Suspends Maritime Union, Arrests Skipper After Tragic Boat Mishap

​Following a devastating boat accident at the Buruku crossing point on the River Katsina-Ala, the Benue State government has taken swift punitive and regulatory actions to overhaul waterway safety. The Saturday morning tragedy involved a wooden vessel carrying over 70 passengers—many of whom were mourners—resulting in several individuals remaining unaccounted for despite immediate rescue interventions.

​In response to the disaster, the State Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Denis Iyaghigba, personally led an on-the-spot assessment of the accident scene. Consequently, the government announced the immediate suspension of the Buruku crossing point branch of the Nigeria Union of Maritime Workers (NUMW) alongside the line operator. Furthermore, authorities have ordered the immediate arrest and detention of the boat skipper to facilitate an unhindered inquiry.

​To determine the root causes of the disaster, an inter-ministerial committee has been established. The panel is tasked with investigating the remote and immediate factors surrounding the capsizing and formulating robust framework recommendations to elevate safety standards across all river routes in the state.

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​Highlighting potential hazards at the site, Commissioner Iyaghigba expressed grave concern over an abandoned barge believed to have contributed to the accident. The owner has been issued a strict seven-day ultimatum to evacuate the obstruction or face outright confiscation by the state government. Additionally, the administration has reinforced its mandatory life jacket policy, warning that strict compliance will henceforth be enforced at every river crossing point across Benue.

​Search and rescue operations remain active, with state authorities collaborating closely with local divers and relevant ministries to locate missing victims. Further updates are expected as investigations progress.