Oyo Residents Warned Against Drowning Risks Near Rivers, Pools
Residents of Oyo State have been urged to exercise caution around rivers, streams, dams, swimming pools and other water-related facilities to prevent incidents of accidental drowning.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday night by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Police Command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade.
Ayanlade also advised church owners and religious organisations whose worship centres are located close to rivers, streams or other natural water bodies to put adequate safety measures in place during religious activities.
According to the police, the advisory followed a series of drowning-related incidents recorded across the state in 2025.
In June 2025, officials of the Saki Zonal Command of the Oyo State Fire Service Agency recovered the body of a two-year-old girl from a well at Orita Mokola Junction in Saki Local Government Area. Similarly, in November 2025, the remains of a 45-year-old man were retrieved from a well at Odo Ogbo, Oja Agbe, in Iseyin Local Government Area.
The police spokesperson warned against unsupervised access to water bodies, particularly by children.
“Members of the public are hereby urged to exercise extreme caution around rivers, streams, dams, swimming pools and other water-related facilities to prevent accidental drowning,” Ayanlade said.
He added that churches and religious organisations located near water bodies must take proactive safety measures and ensure adequate supervision during worship and other activities.
“Unsupervised access to nearby water bodies, especially by children, should be strictly discouraged,” he stated.
Ayanlade also reminded hotel owners, resort operators and managers of recreational facilities of their responsibility to ensure that swimming pools within their premises are properly supervised and clearly marked with safety notices.
He further advised parents and guardians to be deliberate about the safety of their children and wards.
“Children should not be allowed to visit rivers, wells or engage in swimming activities without responsible adults who will properly guide, guard and supervise them at all times,” he said.
The police spokesperson also cautioned owners and occupants of houses with wells to ensure that such wells are properly covered and securely lidded.
“Where corrosion, damage, or structural defects are noticed on well covers or protective structures, such defects must be addressed immediately to prevent accidents. Access to well areas should be restricted and securely locked when not in use by an adult,” Ayanlade added.
He further urged owners and operators of recreational facilities to engage trained instructors, lifeguards and swimming tutors, noting that essential safety and rescue equipment must be readily available and functional at all times.
Abiodun Ogunrinde is a Linguist and Journalist with considerable years of experience in Print Journalism. He blends creativity with a sense of reporting that addresses public concern and human interests.
