Emma Elekwa

Nine persons, including seven school children and two adults were on Tuesday rescued from a flood incident along the Nibo–Isiagu road in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The victims were rescued alive by the Police, in collaboration with concerned members of the community in the early hours of the day.

The victims were on their way to school in a bus when they were caught up with the deluge until the arrival of rescue team.

Unconfirmed number of other passengers were however said to still be missing as at the time of filing the report.

Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the victims were the State Police Command through its Safe School Operatives, in collaboration with concerned members of the community.

He however disclosed that one other child involved in the incident remained unaccounted for, adding that a search operation is ongoing for the missing child.

He said, “Anambra State Police Command, through its Safe School Operatives, in collaboration with concerned members of the community, has rescued nine persons following a flood incident along the Nibo–Isiagu Road, Awka.

“The incident occurred in the early hours of today, 22nd September 2026, when some school children and adults were caught up in the flood while travelling along the affected route.

“Upon receiving information about the incident, the Safe School Operatives swiftly mobilised to the area and, working with members of the community, rescued seven school children and two adults and moved them to safety.

“However, one additional child involved in the incident is still unaccounted for. The Command has consequently activated sustained search and rescue operations in the affected area.

“The search operation is being conducted in collaboration with community members and relevant stakeholders and will continue until the remaining persons are located and accounted for.

“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama has directed that the search and rescue operation be sustained and expanded.

“He also urged residents of the area, particularly those living or operating around the affected route, to provide the Police and other responding agencies with any information that may assist in locating the missing persons.

“The Command further urges parents, guardians, school authorities and motorists to exercise extreme caution around flooded roads, bridges and waterways, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

“Parents and guardians are also advised to ensure that children do not attempt to cross flooded or otherwise dangerous routes.

“The Anambra State Police Command remains committed to the protection and safety of school children and will continue to strengthen collaboration with communities and relevant agencies under the Safe School Initiative to prevent avoidable loss of lives during emergencies.