The NBM of Africa Worldwide has expressed deep concern over the recent flood-related death of a six-year-old pupil, Success Ezenwafor, in Anambra State. Success was swept away on Tuesday when the school bus he was in overturned in floodwater along the Nibo–Isiagu Road in Awka South Local Government Area. The incident has prompted the NBM to call for stronger measures to protect schoolchildren from flood-related risks.
According to reports, nine other occupants of the school bus, comprising seven schoolchildren and two adults, were rescued by the police and residents and taken to the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka, for treatment. Success remained missing until his body was recovered on Wednesday morning during a search operation involving the police and members of the community. His remains were subsequently deposited at a morgue.
The NBM President, Dr Charles Chimezie, Ph.D., commiserated with Success's family, the management and pupils of UNIZIK Primary School, as well as the government and people of Anambra State, over the incident. Chimezie described the incident as "a painful and heartbreaking loss," noting that the child's reported attempt to save others reflected courage and selflessness for his age.
Dr. Chimezie urged the authorities to strengthen flood-control measures, monitor flood-prone roads, and enforce safety standards for school transportation, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. According to him, such measures would help prevent avoidable loss of young lives. The NBM president also commended the police, residents, and other rescuers for their efforts during the search and rescue operation.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of schoolchildren in flood-prone areas. The NBM's call for stronger protection measures is aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. The organization's president prayed for strength for Success's family and the school community while calling for greater collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of children.
The Anambra State government has been urged to take immediate action to address the issue of flooding in the state. The government's efforts to mitigate the impact of flooding on schoolchildren have been questioned, with many calling for more to be done to prevent such incidents. The NBM's statement has added to the growing pressure on the government to take action.
The incident has also raised questions about the safety standards of school transportation in Nigeria. The NBM's call for stricter safety standards has highlighted the need for greater investment in school transportation infrastructure. The organization's statement has sparked a national conversation about the need for greater protection for schoolchildren.
Key points
- NBM President Dr. Charles Chimezie urges authorities to strengthen flood-control measures and enforce safety standards for school transportation.
- The incident has raised concerns about the safety of schoolchildren in flood-prone areas.
- The NBM has called for greater collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of children.
