Two Nigerians Rescued as Scores Feared Dead in Mediterranean Boat Disaster — IOM
- Ajibade Omolade Chistianah
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Two Nigerian women have been rescued following a deadly boat accident off the Libyan coast, while dozens of other migrants are feared dead or missing, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The UN migration agency disclosed that the incident involved a rubber boat carrying about 55 migrants and refugees which capsized in the central Mediterranean Sea, north of the coastal town of Zuwara. The tragedy reportedly occurred over the weekend amid harsh winter conditions at sea.
IOM said preliminary information suggests that at least 53 people, including two infants, may have lost their lives. Many of those onboard were believed to be Nigerians, alongside migrants from other African countries.
Accounts from the two Nigerian survivors painted a grim picture. One woman told rescuers that her husband drowned during the mishap, while the other said she lost both of her babies when the boat overturned.
According to the survivors, the vessel departed from Zawiya late Thursday night and began taking in water several hours into the journey before eventually capsizing. Although the intended destination was not confirmed, migrant boats leaving Libya are often bound for the Italian island of Lampedusa.
The IOM reiterated warnings about the dangers of irregular migration through Libya, noting that the flimsy rubber boats commonly used are unfit for long sea journeys. The agency stressed that Libya remains unsafe for migrants, citing ongoing concerns including abuse, illegal detention, and the discovery of mass graves.
The incident adds to a growing toll of migrant deaths in the Mediterranean. IOM data shows that hundreds have already been reported dead or missing this year, while many others have been intercepted at sea and returned to Libya. The agency renewed its call for stronger international cooperation, safer migration pathways, and intensified efforts to dismantle human trafficking networks operating in the region.
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