Tragedy Strikes as Six Kaduna Students Drown in Water After JSSC Exams
Six students from Government Secondary School in Fadan Chawai, Kauru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, tragically drowned while returning home after taking their Junior Secondary School Certificate Examination (JSSC) on Wednesday.
The students, all from Ribang community, encountered the tragedy on their way back home after the exam. Ishaya Chingali, a community leader in Chawai and Vice President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), reported that 11 students attempted to cross the river linking Ribang and Fadan Chawai. Sadly, six drowned while five survived.
Chingali informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that four bodies had been recovered, and efforts were ongoing to find the remaining two. “They tried to cross the river as they have done many times before, but unfortunately, six of them drowned,” he said.
Yohanna Gwall, President of the Ribang Development Association, identified the deceased as Manasseh Monday, Musa John, Pius David, David Danlami, Yahuza Audu, and Monday Ayuba. Gwall expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating, “This is a great tragedy for our community. Their parents, siblings, and friends are devastated by this loss. These children had their whole lives ahead of them.”
Bashir Dawaki, Chairman of Kauru Local Government, said he had ordered security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly. “I am heading to the location now, but I have instructed security personnel to provide a comprehensive report,” he stated.
In a condolence message, SOKAPU President Tabara Kato extended sympathies to the families and the Ribang community. Kato urged the government and relevant agencies to address the infrastructural challenges in rural areas to prevent such tragedies.
Kauru Local Government, particularly Chawai Chiefdom, faces significant infrastructural deficits despite being a rich agrarian community. The lack of proper roads and bridges exacerbates the difficulties faced by residents, especially during the rainy season when rivers and streams swell, making travel perilous.
The students’ decision to cross the river was driven by their determination not to miss their exams, leading to the unfortunate incident.
