A little girl identified as Success, who went missing on Monday after heavy rains in Awka, Anambra State swept off a moving school bus, has been found alive trapped under a huge debris.
According to eyewitnesses and rescue officials, the incident occurred on Monday evening during a downpour that caused severe flooding in parts of the state capital. The school bus was reportedly conveying pupils when the floodwaters overpowered it and swept it off the road.
Emergency responders, including officials of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, and local volunteers, launched a search operation through the night. The girl was discovered on Tuesday morning under mounds of debris and mud along the drainage channel in the area.
“According to a statement by SEMA officials, the child was found alive but in a weakened condition and has been taken to hospital for medical attention,” a rescue source said.
Residents who joined the search expressed relief at the development. “We have been praying since yesterday. To see Success alive is a miracle,” one resident said.
The Anambra State Government has yet to release the official number of casualties from Monday’s rain, but sources said several vehicles were affected and properties destroyed across Awka.
In a related development, the State Ministry of Education said it is working with school authorities to account for all pupils affected by the incident and to review safety measures during rainy seasons.
Meanwhile, SEMA has advised residents, especially parents and school owners, to avoid flooded areas and ensure children do not go out during heavy rainfall. The agency said clearing and assessment of damaged areas will continue in the coming days.
Leave a Reply