Military Raises New Safety Concerns on the Benue River After Boat Accident

The Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) has issued a renewed safety warning to boat operators, passengers, and communities along the River Benue after a recent incident that claimed nine lives amid rising water levels.

The warning was delivered by OPWS Maritime Component Commander Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Zakari in a statement released in Makurdi by Acting Media Information Officer Lt. Ahmad Zubairu.

Zakari explained that persistent rainfall has increased the river’s volume, producing stronger currents and turbulence that pose serious risks to water transport.

He said the advisory followed a tragic boat accident on June 13. A vessel carrying 43 passengers from Kwanta Wadata to Daudu capsized between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., resulting in nine fatalities.

Zakari noted that adherence to established maritime safety regulations could have prevented the accident or substantially reduced the loss of life.

As part of the safety directives, he instructed all passengers and river users to wear life jackets at all times while traveling by boat and urged operators to equip each vessel with at least one life buoy.

The commander also warned against exceeding approved passenger limits and advised operators to carry essential emergency items, such as functional torchlights, spare spark plugs, and tarpaulins.

In addition, Zakari appealed to mariners to keep waterways clean by refraining from disposing of non‑biodegradable materials and other waste into the river.

He reaffirmed that night‑time navigation remains prohibited, with boat operations allowed only between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily for security reasons.

He directed all boat operators to register with their respective unions and to maintain valid identification while conducting their activities.

Residents of riverine settlements were encouraged to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious movements or criminal activity to security agencies.

Zakari warned that those who disregard the safety directives will face sanctions under applicable regulations and called on maritime unions to enforce compliance among their members.

“The maritime component of Operation Whirl Stroke remains committed to safeguarding lives, protecting property and ensuring the security of waterways within its area of responsibility,” he said.

The commander further urged the public to support security agencies by observing all safety guidelines and maintaining vigilance while using the waterways.