A boat carrying more than 200 persons has reportedly capsized along the Dambo-Ebuchi sections of River Niger.
The incident occurred on Friday morning. Among the victims are traders and farmers who were travelling to Katcha for the weekly market.
Rescue efforts led by local divers are under way, with eight bodies reportedly recovered at the time of reporting.
Ibrahim Hussaini, spokesperson of the Niger state Management Agency, said that he was yet be briefed about the incident.
Hussaini said investigations into the purported mishap were ongoing.
The incident comes barely two months after a boat accident claimed the lives of 42 persons at Gbajibo community of Mokwa LGA in Niger state.
On October 1, a boat conveying more than 200 persons went missing after it capsized, with 150 passengers reportedly rescued.