Heavy rainfall between Monday and Tuesday led to flooding along a section of the Nibo–Isiagu Road (also known as Ring Road) in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. In the early hours of Tuesday, 22 September 2026, a group of schoolchildren and adults travelling the route became trapped by the rising water.
According to a statement from Anambra State Police Command spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Safe School Operatives, working with local community members, quickly responded after receiving reports of the incident. They successfully rescued seven schoolchildren and two adults and moved them to safety.
One additional child who was involved remains unaccounted for. The command has launched sustained search-and-rescue efforts in the area, conducted jointly with community members and other stakeholders. These operations will continue until the missing child is located.
Commissioner of Police Nnanna Ama has ordered that the search be maintained and expanded. He appealed to residents living or working near the affected route to share any information that could help the police and responding agencies. Ama also urged parents, guardians, school authorities, and motorists to exercise extreme caution around flooded roads, bridges, and waterways during heavy rain. He specifically advised against allowing children to attempt crossing flooded or dangerous routes.
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Anambra frequently faces flooding challenges during the rainy season. The state lies within a flood-prone region, and authorities, including the state government and agencies such as NEMA and SEMA, regularly issue alerts. Issues such as blocked drainage channels, gully erosion, and human activities that obstruct waterways contribute to the problem. Recent state efforts have included calls for drainage clean-ups and environmental measures to reduce risks.
The Safe School Initiative, under which the operatives operate, focuses on protecting students and school environments. It involves visible police presence, safety sensitization, assistance with safe road crossing, and collaboration with schools, parents, and communities—especially important during periods of heavy weather or other risks.
Practical safety steps for residents during the rainy season:
• Avoid travelling on or near flooded roads whenever possible.
• Parents and guardians should confirm routes are clear before children leave for school and discourage any attempt to cross deep water.
• Motorists should turn back rather than drive through flooded sections.
• Report blocked drains or emerging flood risks to local authorities promptly.
• Share any credible information about the ongoing search with the police.
The police command stated it will continue strengthening collaboration with communities and relevant agencies under the Safe School Initiative to help prevent avoidable loss of life in emergencies.
Anyone with information that may assist the search is encouraged to contact the Anambra State Police Command.
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