Tragedy struck on Monday around Hardel Road, Orji, in Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, after a young boy, simply identified as Ejima, reportedly lost his life while scavenging for scrap metal.
According to information received through the SeeSay Reporting online platform, the deceased had gone to a nearby block industry with his twin and other children in search of scrap metal to sell during the ongoing school holiday. An eyewitness estimated that the boy was between 13 and 14 years old, although his exact age could not be independently verified.
Eyewitnesses said part of the block industry had become flooded following recent rainfall.
Unknown to the children, a deep pit within the premises had been completely concealed beneath the floodwater. While attempting to cross what appeared to be a shallow pool of water, Ejima reportedly stepped into the hidden pit and disappeared beneath the surface.
The other children immediately raised an alarm, attracting residents who rushed to the scene. Rescue efforts were hindered by the muddy, stagnant water filling the pit, making it difficult to locate the victim. After an extensive search, the boy was eventually recovered but was sadly found lifeless.
The heartbreaking incident has left residents in mourning and renewed concerns over the safety of abandoned or unsecured pits within industrial premises, particularly during the rainy season when floodwaters can conceal dangerous hazards.
The tragedy also highlights the growing concern of children engaging in scavenging activities during school holidays, exposing themselves to life-threatening risks in search of income.
Community members have called on property owners to properly secure hazardous sites and urged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children’s movements during the holiday period. They also appealed to relevant authorities to ensure dangerous locations are adequately fenced, covered, or clearly marked to prevent similar tragedies.
C-Advocate extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and encourages members of the public to continue reporting community safety concerns through the SeeSay Reporting platform.