At least 76 people killed in Nigeria boat capsize

In a boat capsize incident, at least 76 people were drowned in Nigeria while crossing the flood-inundated river Niger river yesterday (Sunday).

The Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, in an official statement, said almost everyone on board in the boat drowned in the accident took place in the Anambra state of Nigeria.

The overloaded boat capsized while carrying 85 passengers, in the Niger River.

"The boat reportedly carrying 85 persons capsized following rising floods in Ogbaru area of the state, with emergency services confirming a death toll of 76," Buhari's office quoted him as saying.

He gave the emergency services instructions to assist the victims.

"I pray for the repose of the souls of the deceased and for everyone's safety, as well as the well-being of the family members of the victims of this tragic accident," he added.

On Sunday morning, the emergency services reported that the rising water level was hampering rescue operations.