ASABA – Comrade Josephine Omodior, the Executive Director of Eye On The Future Initiative (EFI), a Delta State-based non-governmental organization, has urged parents to keep their children indoors during rainstorms to avoid flood-related tragedies. In a press release issued on Sunday, Omodior highlighted the looming danger of anticipated floods across various parts of the country, emphasizing the need for proactive action to prevent disaster.
Omodior expressed deep concern over the negligence displayed by some parents during heavy downpours, warning that the disregard for potential flood risks could have fatal consequences. She stressed that many children have already fallen victim to floods, particularly in Delta State’s capital, Asaba, where several have been swept into open drains.
“Parents should keep their children indoors whenever it rains, especially as there are increasing reports of floods sweeping children into open gutters across the State capital. Children are often unaware of the speed and power of the floodwater, and may unknowingly wander into dangerous areas,” Omodior stated. “It is the responsibility of parents to remain vigilant and ensure their children are safely indoors when the weather turns bad. We simply cannot afford the risk of losing more young lives to these floods.”
The EFI Director recounted a recent near-tragedy that occurred last Thursday along Okpanam Road in Asaba. According to Omodior, a ten-year-old child was nearly swept away by floodwaters but was rescued at the last moment by a courageous bystander. The adult risked his life to save the child and nearly drowned in the process before another passerby came to his rescue.
“This incident should serve as a wake-up call to parents. Floodwaters are unpredictable, and exposed drains in our communities are highly dangerous. As parents, it is our duty to protect our children from such hazards, especially with overwhelming currents rushing through the streets during heavy rains,” she added.
Omodior also noted that several children have tragically lost their lives after falling into exposed drains in Delta State, calling for an urgent change in parental attitudes and awareness to prevent further incidents. She reiterated that with flooding expected to worsen in some areas, now is the time for increased caution and responsibility.
She concluded her statement with a call for collective community action, urging not only parents but also local authorities to work together to cover open drains and improve flood mitigation efforts.
