Tragedy in FUOTUOKE: 200L Student Drowns While Attempting ₦300 Bet Swim
The body of a 200-level Chemical Engineering student from the Federal University, Otuoke, who drowned in Ekoli Creek, Yenagoa, while reportedly attempting to swim across for a ₦300 bet, has been recovered.
His remains were retrieved from the river on Monday evening, nearly 24 hours after he went missing. Eyewitnesses recounted that he had jumped into the water but failed to resurface, sparking panic among those present.
Grief-stricken students of the university gathered on Monday night for a solemn candlelight procession in his honor, mourning the tragic loss of their colleague.
University Declines Comment
When contacted, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mercy Ekott, declined to comment on the incident, stating in a text message, “Sorry, but I haven’t been authorized to speak on the matter.”
Police Confirm Investigation
Confirming the incident on Tuesday, spokesperson for the Bayelsa State Police Command, Musa Mohammed, said an investigation is underway to uncover the exact circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
“The deceased had gone to the river with a friend to bathe. Unfortunately, in the process, he jumped into the water and drowned. We urge students, especially young people, to exercise caution around water bodies, whether they know how to swim or not,” Mohammed stated.
Sources alleged that the student had wagered he could swim across the creek, but halfway through, he submerged and did not reappear. His tragic passing has since raised concerns over the dangers of reckless swimming and risky bets among youths.
