Tragedy in Okemesi-Ekiti: Four Young Men Drown in Osun River
The community of Okemesi-Ekiti in Ekiti West Local Government Area of Ekiti State has been thrown into mourning after four young men tragically drowned in the Osun River along Ajido, Ikoro Road, on Sunday.
The victims, whose names were yet to be confirmed at the time of this report, included two natives of Okemesi-Ekiti and two visitors from Lagos State. They had traveled to the town to attend a burial ceremony before the incident occurred.
According to reports, the young men decided to visit the river for a swim but were caught off guard by its depth and strong currents. Eyewitnesses said efforts to rescue them were unsuccessful, and all four drowned in the process.
Confirming the tragedy, Ekiti State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Sunday Abutu, stated:
“A distress report received on 10/11/2024 indicated that a 23-year-old and a 25-year-old, both natives of Okemesi-Ekiti, went to River Osun alongside two friends from Lagos State after attending a burial ceremony. Unfortunately, the four young men drowned. Their bodies have been recovered and deposited in the morgue, while investigations are underway.”
The deaths have left the community devastated, with many residents expressing shock and grief over the loss of lives. Families of the deceased are said to be inconsolable as they come to terms with the tragedy.
Community members have called for increased safety awareness and measures around the river to prevent similar incidents in the future. Some have suggested the installation of warning signs or barriers to alert visitors to potential dangers.
This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the risks posed by natural water bodies, particularly for those unfamiliar with the terrain. Authorities are urging individuals to exercise caution and avoid swimming in unmonitored or hazardous areas.
The loss of the four young men has cast a shadow over Okemesi-Ekiti, as the community mourns a tragedy that could have been avoided.
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