By: Oriola Afolabi
Tragedy struck in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, as three people were reportedly swept away by torrential rainfall that caused severe flooding across several parts of the city.
The downpour, which lasted for several hours, resulted in large volumes of floodwater flowing through major roads and residential areas, raising fresh concerns about flooding and the safety of residents during the rainy season.
Some civil servants were reportedly trapped in their offices as the situation became increasingly dangerous, with floodwaters rising rapidly and making movement difficult for residents.
Areas affected by the flooding include Aayemi Garage, Elemi, Ureje, Odo-Ado, Faglo, Poly Road and New Iyin Road.
The three people swept away by the rushing water were said to include an elderly woman, a lady and an Okada rider.
In a separate incident, a middle-aged man who was reportedly intoxicated was rescued by hundreds of people who had been trapped by the flood, while he attempted to cross the fast-moving water.
As of the time of filing this report, emergency responders and community members were making efforts to locate the missing persons.
Residents have been urged to exercise extreme caution during heavy rainfall, particularly in flood-prone areas, and to avoid attempting to cross roads or waterways covered by fast-moving floodwater.
The incident has also renewed calls for improved drainage infrastructure and stronger flood-management measures across Ado-Ekiti.
Residents living in flood-prone communities are advised to move to higher ground whenever flooding begins and to avoid putting themselves at risk by attempting to cross rapidly flowing water.
