The Anambra State Police Command has warned parents, guardians and caregivers to take extra precautions. This warning follows persistent rainfall and flooding in parts of the state and is part of a wider Anambra flood alert.
According to The PUNCH, the warning followed the death of a school pupil who was swept away by floodwater in Isiagu. This incident happened in Awka South Local Government Area amid the Anambra flood alert issued earlier.
Police spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga said residents should remain vigilant during the Anambra flood alert. This is particularly important when children are travelling to and from school during periods of heavy rainfall.
School bus trapped in flood
The victim, Success Ezenwafor, was a pupil of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Primary School.
He was on his way to school last Tuesday. At that time, the school bus conveying him and other occupants became trapped in floodwater and overturned.
Police officers, working with residents, rescued nine people from the vehicle.
Those rescued included seven schoolchildren and two adults.
They were taken to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka, for medical attention.
Search ends with recovery of body
Success was swept away by the flood during the incident and remained missing after the initial rescue operation.
His body was recovered the following morning.
The incident prompted the police command to issue a fresh flood alert. This was necessary as heavy rainfall continues in parts of Anambra State. In fact, the Anambra flood alert remains crucial due to ongoing weather risks.
Parents urged to exercise caution
The command urged parents, guardians and caregivers to pay closer attention to weather and flood conditions. This should be done before allowing children to travel.
Residents were also advised to avoid flooded roads and areas where strong water currents could pose a danger.
Police said the warning was necessary to prevent further loss of life as the rainy season continues.
