Benue Suspends Buruku Maritime Union After Boat Capsize, Orders Skipper’s Arrest

The Benue State Government has suspended the Buruku branch of the Nigeria Union of Maritime Workers and the operator of the affected river route after a passenger boat capsized on the River Katsina-Ala. During an inspection of the scene, the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Denis Iyaghigba, ordered the arrest and detention of the boat skipper as investigations continue. Some passengers were rescued, while others remain unaccounted for. The state said search and rescue teams, supported by local divers, are still working to find missing passengers. An inter-ministerial committee has also been set up to establish the causes of the accident and recommend safety measures. Boat operators across Benue have been directed to enforce the use of life jackets. The owner of an abandoned barge suspected to have contributed to the mishap has been given seven days to remove it or risk confiscation.

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