A tragic boat accident in Nigeria’s Benue State has claimed the lives of at least 20 people, according to local authorities. 

The wooden boat, carrying passengers returning from a local market, capsized on the Benue River near the Igatu region. Benue Police spokesperson Catherine Anene confirmed the incident and provided updates on the rescue efforts. 

"Rescue teams have recovered 20 bodies so far, and 11 survivors have been rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment," Anene said. 

Emergency services are continuing search and rescue operations in the area, amid fears that more passengers may still be unaccounted for. 

The cause of the accident has not yet been determined. Authorities are working to understand what led to the sinking of the boat, which was reportedly carrying a large number of passengers at the time of the incident. 

The Benue River is a vital waterway for local communities, but overcrowded and poorly maintained boats are common, making such accidents a recurring tragedy in the region. 

The government and local officials have expressed condolences to the families of the victims as rescue operations continue. (ILKHA)