Tragedy on the River: 37 Traders Killed as Overloaded Boat Capsizes Near Kwara-Niger Border

 By: Manoah Kikekon 

Capsized boat used to illustrate the story 

In a devastating incident, 37 traders lost their lives when an overloaded boat capsized on the Gbajibo-Mudi River, bordering Kwara and Niger states, on Thursday evening.  

The victims were returning home to Niger State after visiting the weekly market when the tragedy struck. Reports indicate that the boat, meant to carry around 100 passengers, was dangerously overcrowded, and the strong river currents worsened the situation.  

Mahmoud Gbajibo, former chairman of Kaiama Local Government, confirmed the incident in a phone interview, stating, “The accident happened around 6 pm. The traders had just left the Gbajigbo Mudi market when the boat capsized. So far, 37 bodies have been recovered, while several others were rescued.”  

He added that overloading and high water levels likely caused the disaster. Local authorities, including the current Kaiama LGA Chairman, Abubakar Abdullahi, and the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Omar, have visited the community to offer condolences and support.  

Efforts to get an official statement from the Kwara State Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls to the Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, went unanswered.  

This heartbreaking accident highlights the dangers of overloading and the need for stricter waterway safety regulations.