The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has revealed that two lives have been lost in the Abule Egba area of Lagos, as a man died while trying to rescue a toddler who fell into a well. ‎‎The toddler’s body is yet to be recovered as a result of the thick mud and depth of the well. ‎‎
According to LASEMA’s statement, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the incident took place on Tuesday, October 20 at No. 4, Paul Street, inward Agbe Road, following the accidental fall of the compound cleaner’s toddler into the well.‎‎
The agency revealed that a member of the Hausa community in the area attempted to save the toddler by entering into the well but became stuck, and later recovered dead.‎‎
Meanwhile, LASEMA reported that a distress call was received by the agency at 9:48 a.m, with its response team from the Igando Base, immediately deployed.‎‎
The rescue operation was a collaboration between LASEMA, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps and the Nigeria Police Force.
‎‎Regarding the remains of the deceased, the rescuer’s remains were handed over to his relatives and members of the Hausa community for a customary burial. ‎
On the other hand, the toddler’s body remains unrecovered due to the thick mud and depth of the well. ‎‎
Although the agency employed the service of a professional local diver, after unsuccessful attempts, the diver was only able to recover a shoe belonging to he toddler. ‎‎
An expert assessment and consultation with the family and community leaders, followed by the conclusion of the operation by LASEMA. ‎‎
Oke-Osanyintolu expressed condolences to the bereaved families and the Hausa community, while praising the courage of the rescuer. ‎‎
The Lagos State Government, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also extended its condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.‎‎
The Agency urged residents to ensure that wells and other openings within residential premises are properly covered, raised and secured, especially in homes with young children. ‎