In the space of a month, about ten children have died by drowning in the Benue River, according to a report by the radio station CRTV. The victims are between 8 and 16 years old.

Parental neglect is being blamed by the local administrative authorities. In this context of coronavirus which forced authorities to close schools, many children escape their parents' supervision and go for activities that can be dangerous.

The prefect of Bénoué, Oumarou Haman Wabi, held a crisis meeting with his staff on 14 April to discuss the matter. At the end of this meeting, it was decided to intensify awareness campaigns towards parents for better supervision of children during this lockdown period.

The administrative authority threatened the families with reprisals if new deaths due to drowning were still recorded.

P.N.N