The NBM of Africa Worldwide has called for stronger measures to protect schoolchildren from flood-related risks following the death of six-year-old Success Ezenwafor, who was swept away after a school bus overturned in floodwater in Anambra State.
The NBM President, Dr Charles Chimezie, Ph.D., made the call while commiserating with Success’s family, the management and pupils of UNIZIK Primary School, as well as the government and people of Anambra State, over the incident.
Success was reportedly swept away on Tuesday when the school bus conveying him and other occupants was trapped and overturned by floodwater along the Nibo–Isiagu Road in Awka South Local Government Area.
Nine other occupants, comprising seven schoolchildren and two adults, were rescued by the police and residents and taken to the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka, for treatment.
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Success remained missing until his body was recovered on Wednesday morning during a search operation involving the police and members of the community. His remains were subsequently deposited at a morgue.
Chimezie described the incident as “a painful and heartbreaking loss,” saying the child’s reported attempt to save others reflected courage and selflessness for his age.
He urged the authorities to strengthen flood-control measures, monitor flood-prone roads, and enforce safety standards for school transportation, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
According to him, such measures would help prevent avoidable loss of young lives.
The NBM president also commended the police, residents, and other rescuers for their efforts during the search and rescue operation.
He prayed for strength for Success’s family and the school community while calling for greater collective responsibility for the safety and well-being of children.