By Olokuta Rofiat
A 12-year-old pupil, Nathan Spencer, has been confirmed dead after being swept away by floodwaters during a heavy rainfall in Benin City, Edo State.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, July 6, along the Uselu-Ugbowo Road, but it was officially reported on Tuesday, July 9, igniting public outrage over student safety and the persistent issue of poor drainage infrastructure in the city.
Nathan, a student of Future Leaders Academy, was reportedly on his way to write an examination when he was caught in the flood.
Eyewitnesses said he struggled to stay afloat before being dragged away by the current.
He was later rescued by bystanders and taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Reacting to the incident, the Edo State Government shut down four schools linked to the tragedy and arrested the headteacher of Nathan’s school for alleged negligence and failure to ensure proper supervision during the storm.
In a statement, the state Ministry of Education expressed deep sorrow and pledged a full investigation.
The ministry also issued a directive for schools across the state to prioritize student safety, particularly during the rainy season.
Residents of Benin have repeatedly raised concerns over the city’s inadequate drainage system and the increasing danger it poses during heavy rains.
Nathan’s death has once again brought those concerns to the fore, prompting fresh calls for urgent infrastructural reforms and the enforcement of school safety protocols.
As the community mourns, citizens are demanding decisive government action to prevent future tragedies and protect vulnerable children from avoidable loss.
