Flood Sweeps Away 35-Year-Old Man, Two Motorcyclists In Ekiti

A 35-year-old man identified as Ibrahim Mandella has reportedly drowned after he was swept away by flood in the Adehun area of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. Two commercial motorcyclists were also reportedly swept away by flood at Elemi River in Ado-Ekiti as heavy rainfall caused flooding in several parts of the city. Mandella, a native of Zacaba Local Government Area of Kebbi State, was reportedly returning home after working around Ijero when the incident occurred. According to his family, Mandella had stopped at a car wash in Adehun during the heavy downpour before his wife, Favour Mary, called him and urged him to return home. His brother, Dauda Daniel, said Mandella told people around him that he could cross the flood. However, he was reportedly swept away while attempting to cross under a narrow bridge. His remains were subsequently found opposite the highway near the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries junction in Adehun. Recounting her last conversation with her husband, Favour said she spoke with Mandella twice at about 10:45pm. She said he assured her that he would return home shortly. According to her, Mandella also sent N4,500 for dinner before she went to bed with their two children. She said she woke up around 4am and discovered that her husband had not returned. The incident has left the family devastated, particularly as Mandella had reportedly been working in the area before his death. Meanwhile, the two commercial motorcyclists were reportedly swept away by flood at Elemi River in Ado-Ekiti. Details about the identities of the two motorcyclists and whether rescue teams had located them were not immediately available as of the time of filing this report. Flooding was also reported around Ayemi Garage Bridge, adjacent to Midas Hotel, along the Ekiti State University Road, with floodwater covering parts of the area. The incidents occurred amid heavy rainfall recorded across different parts of Nigeria in recent days. The flooding has raised concerns among residents, particularly over the safety of motorists, pedestrians and commercial transport workers who are forced to navigate flooded roads and bridges during heavy rainfall. Residents have been advised to avoid attempting to cross fast-moving floodwater, particularly at night when visibility is poor. Motorists and pedestrians have also been urged to exercise caution around bridges, rivers and other flood-prone areas to prevent further loss of lives.