# Benue State boat accident

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/benue-state-boat-accident
> Updated: 2026-10-05T17:36:15.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2.

A boat accident occurred on the River Katsina-Ala in the Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The vessel, which was reportedly overloaded with over 70 mourners and approximately 30 motorcycles, capsized following engine failure and heavy waves.

As rescue operations progressed, the Benue State Emergency Management Agency confirmed that four people died and nine remain missing out of approximately 138 people involved. While 125 passengers were rescued, divers have faced difficulties due to submerged debris and river conditions. In response to the incident, the Benue State Government suspended the local branch of the Nigeria Union of Maritime Workers, ordered the arrest of the skipper, and established an inter-ministerial committee to investigate the cause.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-05: Benue boat mishap leaves four dead and nine missing

Four people are dead and nine are missing after a boat carrying passengers and motorcycles capsized on River Katsina-Ala in Benue State, Nigeria. Rescue operations are ongoing.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/benue-boat-mishap-leaves-four-dead-and-nine-missing

### 2026-10-03: Benue State boat accident leaves several dead and missing

A boat carrying over 70 mourners and motorcycles capsized on the River Katsina-Ala in Benue State, leaving several dead or missing. Authorities have suspended the local maritime union pending an investigation.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/buruku-boat-mishap-six-feared-dead-in-benue-state

---
Cite as: Benue State boat accident. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/benue-state-boat-accident