Six students from Government Secondary School, Fadan Chawai, in Kauru Local Government, Kaduna State, tragically lost their lives while returning home following the completion of the Junior Secondary School Certificate Examination (JSSE) on Wednesday.
The students, hailing from Ribang community, were on their journey back home after completing the ongoing JSSC examination when the unfortunate incident took place.
Mr. Ishaya Chingali, a prominent figure in Chawai and Vice President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), revealed that a total of 11 students attempted to cross the river connecting Ribang community and Fadan Chawai. “Six of them perished, while the remaining five managed to survive,” Chingali informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He confirmed that four bodies had been recovered, with efforts still ongoing to locate the other two students. “They were attempting to traverse the river, a feat they had accomplished on numerous occasions. Regrettably, six of them met their demise during this attempt,” he lamented.
Yohanna Gwall, President of the Ribang Development Association, identified the deceased individuals as Manasseh Monday, Musa John, Pius David, David Danlami, Yahuza Audu, and Monday Ayuba.
“It is indeed a somber moment; a great tragedy has befallen our community. Their parents will never see them again, their siblings and friends will no longer engage with them. They departed with their hopes and dreams at their peak,” he expressed sorrowfully.
Upon reaching out to Mr. Bashir Dawaki, Chairman of Kauru Local Government, he disclosed that he had instructed law enforcement agencies to provide a comprehensive report on the incident.
“I am en route to the location, but I have tasked security agencies to conduct a thorough inquiry and furnish me with the details. Therefore, I am unable to provide further information until I have been briefed adequately,” he stated.
In a formal statement, Mr. Tabara Kato, President of SOKAPU, extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased students and the Ribang community following the tragic occurrence.
Mr. Kato urged the government and relevant security bodies to assist rural communities by repairing roads and bridges that connect different areas, thereby preventing similar incidents in the future.
Kauru Local Government predominantly comprises rural areas, with residents having to trek long distances to reach schools, markets, and farms.
The Chawai Chiefdom, an agriculturally prosperous community, faces significant challenges due to the lack of proper roads and essential amenities.
Studies indicate that schoolchildren often miss classes for extended periods during the rainy season when rivers and streams become impassable.
The deceased students chose to brave the river to avoid missing their examination, resulting in an unforeseen tragedy.
