The Benue State government has initiated urgent measures following a tragic boat accident at the Buruku crossing point, where a wooden vessel capsized on Saturday, leaving several passengers unaccounted for. In response to the incident, the state has suspended the local branch of the Nigeria Union of Maritime Workers (NUMW) and arrested the boat's driver.

Denis Iyaghigba, the state Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, conducted an on-site assessment of the accident and announced the immediate suspension of the NUMW branch. The decision aims to enhance safety protocols and prevent future incidents on the waterways. The line operator responsible for the boat service has also been suspended as part of the government's swift response.

In a statement released by Lubem Gena, Head of Media and Public Orientation for the Ministry, it was revealed that search and rescue operations have been activated. Local divers are collaborating with state officials to locate the missing passengers. The government emphasized its commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the mishap and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

The Commissioner stated, "The Ministry has since activated its search and rescue processes and is working with local divers to intensify the search and rescue." He also announced the formation of an inter-ministerial committee tasked with investigating the incident, which will assess both immediate and underlying causes.

As part of the safety measures, Iyaghigba mandated strict adherence to the use of life jackets at all river crossing points in the state. This directive is aimed at reinforcing safety for passengers utilizing the waterways. Additionally, the Commissioner expressed concern over an abandoned barge at the crossing site, which is believed to have contributed to the accident. He issued a seven-day ultimatum to the barge's owner to remove it or face confiscation by the state government.

The boat mishap occurred on Saturday morning while the vessel was crossing the River Katsina-Ala. Although several passengers were rescued, the fate of others remains uncertain, prompting the state to intensify its search efforts. The government has pledged to provide further updates as investigations and rescue operations continue, underscoring its commitment to passenger safety on state waterways.