Five children from the same family drowned after a boat carrying them capsized in Obagaji, Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State.
The tragic event happened over the weekend as the victims were returning home with their father from the farm. The family was said to be traveling in a small boat loaded with harvested crops when it was struck by strong waves, causing it to overturn in the river.
Local divers quickly moved in to rescue those on board but were unable to save five of the children. The father and one of his children survived the accident, while the rest of the siblings were confirmed dead and later buried in their community.
According to residents, seven people were on the boat at the time of the incident. The heavy load and the size of the boat were believed to have contributed to the mishap.
The incident has thrown the Obagaji community into mourning, with many describing it as a heartbreaking loss for the family and the area.Authorities in Agatu Local Government have expressed sorrow over the deaths and offered condolences to the grieving family.
Attempts to reach the state police spokesperson for further details were unsuccessful as of press time.
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