Ogun Teenager Dies in Swimming Tragedy, Police Warn Public

A 17-year-old boy has tragically lost his life while swimming in Ogun State, prompting the Police to call for urgent safety measures at all recreational centres and swimming facilities across the State.

Police Public Relations Officer, Babseyi Oluseyi, confirmed the incident in a post on X (formerly Twitter), describing the death as “avoidable” and urging vigilance.

“A bright and promising young life was cut short in a matter of minutes because safety was absent when it mattered most.

Swimming without an on-duty lifeguard or capable supervision is a deadly risk,” Oluseyi stated.

While the exact location and time of the incident were not disclosed, the Police spokesperson reiterated that recent drowning incidents in the State have raised serious safety concerns.

Operators of swimming pools, hotels, and recreational centres are being urged to ensure pools are properly supervised, clearly marked, and equipped with trained lifeguards and accessible safety equipment.

This is not the first drowning tragedy in Ogun State.

In May 2024, a teenager, Iremide Opeifa, drowned in a hotel pool at Grand Bank Link Hotels along Idiroko Road, Sango Ota, after finishing errands for his mother.

Similarly, in August 2024, Malik Abdulganiyu and Hawal Akande, both teenagers, were found dead in a river at Edudu Baale, Idi-Oke community, Igbesa, days after being reported missing.

“The Commissioner of Police advises that avoidable loss of life is unacceptable, and all stakeholders must take responsibility to ensure safety for themselves and others,” Oluseyi added.

Authorities continue to urge residents to exercise extreme caution when swimming in rivers, streams, or pools, emphasizing that careful supervision can prevent further tragedies.