One child rescued, another missing after river incident in Yobe

One child has been rescued while a search continues for another who was swept away by a river in Dapchi, Yobe State. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at Unguwar Bulama Alhaji Ahmadu, Dapchi, according to a report from the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).

Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Jalo, Director of Search and Rescue Operations at SEMA, stated that state and local government agency search and rescue teams, along with local divers, initiated immediate operations following the incident. As of 5:00 pm on Sunday, 14-year-old Goni Mustapha had been recovered, while efforts to locate the second child persisted at the time of reporting.

Jalo cautioned in a public safety advisory against children playing near rivers, streams, and other water bodies, particularly during the rainy season when levels can surge rapidly. He emphasized that even seemingly calm water may conceal powerful undertows. Jalo urged parents to keep children at a safe distance from riverbanks following rainfall and advised residents not to attempt crossing swollen rivers or engage in swimming or bathing activities in heightened river conditions.

In the event of someone falling into the water, Jalo stressed that individuals should refrain from jumping in after the victim and instead immediately contact local rescue teams or community leaders for assistance. He urged communities situated near water sources to install warning signs and restrict children's access during the rainy season. Jalo expressed thoughts with the affected family and prayed for the safe recovery of the second child involved in the river incident in Yobe.