A university undergraduate was swept away by floodwater in Asaba, Delta State, while travelling with her father, and her body was recovered two days later.
The incident occurred on Monday at Okotimi Layout, behind the Asaba Specialist Hospital, following a downpour.
He was driving to a place where the daughter was doing her industrial attachment. As he was driving, the road was flooded, and the water was pushing the vehicle into the drain,” the eyewitness said.
The eyewitness said the girl, who was sitting in the front of the vehicle, raised her hand and called for help before she was swept away by the floodwater.
Her father was rescued and taken to a hospital for treatment.
The Delta State Emergency Management Agency, under the Ministry of Bureau for Special Duties, confirmed the incident.
The Commissioner for the Bureau of Special Duties, Ejiro Terry Etacherure, said SEMA commenced a search for the girl on Monday and engaged divers to assist in the operation.
He said the search continued until Wednesday, when boat operators at the Otogwu River axis of Anwai Road alerted the agency after discovering a floating body.
The development has renewed calls for improved drainage systems, regular clearing of waterways and greater public awareness of the dangers associated with floodwaters during the rainy season.
Residents have also urged motorists, pedestrians and students to exercise caution around flooded areas and avoid attempting to cross fast-moving floodwaters.
The commissioner said a family member was contacted to identify the body, adding that an ambulance from the Asaba Specialist Hospital conveyed the remains to the hospital morgue.
