Due to flooding, the boat carrying 85 people capsized. The death toll stands at 76
First Published Oct 10, 2022, 8:21 AM IST
Lagos (Nigeria): 76 people died when a boat overturned in the river in Anambra state, Nigeria. A boat carrying 85 people overturned during the floods in the Niger River. President Muhammadu Buhari said on Sunday, “Due to persistent floods in Ogbaru area of the state, a boat carrying 85 people capsized. The death toll has risen to 76”. He directed the rescue workers to provide immediate assistance to the victims.
He added that he prays for the souls of the deceased and the well-being of the family members of those who died in this tragic accident. According to the report, the rescue workers are hindering the rescue operation due to rising water level.
“Rising water levels are hampering rescue efforts,” Thickman Tanimu, the southeast coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), told AFP. With water levels one-tenth higher than a decade ago, the country is experiencing the worst floods in years, he said.
NEMA requested the Nigerian Air Force to provide helicopters for the rescue operation. Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo has urged residents of flood-hit areas to evacuate, while adding that the government will provide assistance to those affected by the disaster. “This development is still a shock to the government and people of Anambra State. With the families of the affected people,” Soludo said in a statement.
Boating accidents are common in Nigeria due to overloading, speeding, poor maintenance and disregard for navigational rules. Since the start of the monsoon season, more than 200 million people have been affected as many areas of the country have been devastated by floods. Official reports put more than 300 dead and at least 100,000 homeless.
The country, which is already facing food shortages and famine from the effects of Covid-19 and the war in Ukraine, is in danger of plunging into further decline, with farms and crops washed away by persistent rains.
Last Updated Oct 10, 2022, 8:21 AM IST
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