A 61-year-old Lagos resident was electrocuted while wading through floodwaters during a downpour in Orile-Iganmu. The incident was confirmed by Police spokesperson SP Benjamin Hundeyin. This tragic event highlights the dangers of electrical hazards in flood conditions and underscores the need for public safety awareness.
A 61-year-old resident of Lagos tragically lost his life after being electrocuted while navigating through floodwaters during a heavy downpour. The incident occurred on Wednesday in the Orile-Iganmu area. The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the unfortunate event through a post shared by Police spokesperson SP Benjamin Hundeyin on his social media handle, @benHundeyin, on Thursday.
SP Hundeyin detailed the incident, stating that the elderly man was attempting to wade through the floodwaters when he grabbed a street light pole for support. Unbeknownst to him, the pole was electrified, leading to his untimely death. The spokesperson took this opportunity to urge residents to exercise caution during such weather conditions and avoid contact with electrical installations when navigating flooded areas.
Flooding in Lagos is a recurring issue, often exacerbated by heavy rains and inadequate drainage systems. The risks posed by flooded areas are numerous, including the danger of electrocution from submerged or exposed electrical wiring and installations. This tragic incident underscores the importance of public awareness and safety measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The police command's announcement has drawn attention to the broader issue of infrastructure safety during flooding, a concern that has been echoed by many residents. As the city continues to grapple with the challenges of heavy rainfall and flooding, there are growing calls for improved infrastructure and emergency response measures to safeguard the lives of citizens.
The public is reminded to report any hazardous conditions to the authorities and to avoid wading through floodwaters whenever possible. The loss of life in this incident is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by severe weather and the critical need for vigilance and safety precautions.