17-year-old drowns while swimming in Ogun

The Ogun State Police Command has called for stricter safety measures at recreational centres and swimming facilities across the state following the death of a 17-year-old boy who drowned while swimming.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Babseyi Oluseyi, disclosed this in a statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, citing a growing number of drowning incidents in the state.

According to Oluseyi, the teenager lost his life in a recent swimming-related incident, which he described as avoidable.

While he did not disclose the exact location or date of the incident, he said the tragedy highlights the dangers of swimming without adequate supervision.

“A couple of days ago, tragedy struck when a 17-year-old young man with a bright and promising future lost his life to an avoidable drowning,” Oluseyi said.

“This heartbreaking incident is a reminder that swimming without an on-duty lifeguard or capable supervision is extremely dangerous.

“One careless moment can cost a lifetime.”

He later declined to provide further details when contacted by our correspondent on Thursday.

The police spokesperson urged residents to exercise caution when swimming in pools, rivers, and other water bodies, while also calling on operators of hotels and recreational centres to prioritise safety.

“The Ogun Police Command warns the public of a recent rise in drowning incidents across the state,” Oluseyi said.

“Operators of swimming facilities must ensure pools are properly supervised, clearly marked, and equipped with trained lifeguards and safety equipment at all times.”

He added that the Commissioner of Police had stressed that avoidable loss of life is unacceptable and that all stakeholders must take responsibility for public safety.

The latest incident adds to a series of drowning-related deaths recorded in the state.

In May 2024, PUNCH Metro reported the death of a teenager, Iremide Opeifa, who drowned in a swimming pool at Grand Bank Link Hotels along Idiroko Road in the Sango Ota area.

Similarly, in August 2024, two teenagers, Malik Abdulganiyu and Hawal Akande, were found dead in a river at Edudu Baale, Idi-Oke community, Igbesa, in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, after being reported missing days earlier.

The police say the recurring incidents underline the urgent need for improved safety standards at swimming and recreational facilities across Ogun State.