The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested a resident of Durumi 2, Abuja, identified as Philip Jallo, in connection with the tragic death of a three-year-old child who drowned after falling into an uncovered soakaway pit. The heartbreaking incident occurred on the night of Tuesday, July 16, 2025.
According to reports, the young boy was playing within the residential compound when he tragically slipped and fell into the open septic tank, which was reportedly filled with human waste.
Despite frantic efforts by residents to rescue him, the child was eventually pulled out unconscious and rushed to a nearby hospital. Sadly, medical personnel later confirmed him dead.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern among residents of the Durumi 2 community, many of whom claim that the uncovered soakaway had been a longstanding safety hazard.
Neighbours alleged that they had on several occasions cautioned the suspect, Philip Jallo, about the dangers posed by leaving the pit exposed, especially in a compound where children frequently play. However, their warnings and appeals were allegedly ignored.
Confirming the arrest, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, issued a statement on Friday condemning the negligence that led to the child’s death.
She explained that preliminary investigations revealed that the soakaway pit had been left dangerously uncovered for an extended period, posing a serious threat to both children and adults within the vicinity.
Adeh stated, “Our preliminary findings indicate gross negligence on the part of the suspect, as multiple warnings had been communicated by concerned neighbours regarding the open soakaway. Unfortunately, no preventive action was taken, culminating in this avoidable tragedy.”
In the wake of the incident, the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Benneth Ajao Adewale, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of such a young life due to a preventable cause and urged residents across the FCT to prioritise safety within their immediate environments.
In his words, “This is an unfortunate and painful loss that could have been avoided if simple safety measures had been observed. I urge all residents to take proactive steps in ensuring that their homes and surroundings are free of hazards. Let us not wait for tragedies to occur before taking action. Parents and guardians must also be vigilant in monitoring their children and ensuring their play areas are secure.”
Furthermore, the Police Commissioner reiterated the commitment of the command to ensuring justice for the deceased child. He assured that the suspect would remain in police custody while a thorough investigation continues to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and any further liabilities.
The police also called on members of the public to report environmental hazards and negligent behaviours that could endanger lives within their communities, stressing that prevention is key to avoiding such unfortunate occurrences.
Meanwhile, the tragic death of the child has reignited conversations about safety standards, building regulations, and the enforcement of public health and environmental safety laws within the Federal Capital Territory.
Community leaders and residents are now calling on relevant authorities to intensify inspections of residential areas to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
As investigations progress, the FCT Police Command has promised to keep the public updated on developments related to the case.
