A wooden boat carrying mourners reportedly capsized at the Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State while passengers were returning from a burial ceremony.

Initial reports indicated that the boat was carrying more than 70 people. Subsequent reports, however, suggested that the number of passengers and motorcycles on board may have significantly higher.

The accident has resulted in deaths and missing persons, with casualty figures changing as rescue and recovery operations continue. Authorities have continued efforts to locate those still missing and recover victims.

While overloading has been cited as a possible factor, reports have also mentioned other circumstances, including an engine problem and difficult water conditions.The definitive cause remains subject to investigation.

Following the incident, the Benue State Government suspended the Buruku branch of the Nigeria Union of Maritime Workers and the boat operator. The government also ordered the arrest and detention of the boat skipper pending investigation.

-9News Nigeria.