A three-year-old boy tragically drowned in an open septic tank in Durumi 2, Abuja, on Tuesday night, July 16.
The child, who was playing within his compound, slipped into the exposed pit filled with human waste.
He was rushed to the hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival.
The tragedy began when the boy’s family noticed he was missing.
Neighbours quickly joined the search. Minutes later, they found the child submerged in the compound’s uncovered soakaway.
Police officers from the Durumi Divisional Headquarters arrived at the scene and arrested Philip Jallo, a resident alleged to be responsible for the neglected pit.
Neighbours Had Warned Repeatedly
Multiple residents said they had repeatedly warned Jallo to cover the septic tank.
They claimed that some even offered to contribute money for repairs, but he allegedly refused.
Police investigators confirmed that the soakaway had been exposed for months, adding that it posed a clear risk to everyone, especially children living in the compound.
Following the arrest, the FCT Police Command released an official statement condemning the incident.
“This tragic loss was avoidable,” said SP Josephine Adeh, the Police Public Relations Officer.
She said, “The FCT Commissioner of Police commiserates with the bereaved family and urges residents to prioritise safety.”
She also warned parents to monitor their children closely while urging residents to eliminate safety hazards from their environment.
A Preventable Death Sparks Outrage
The death of the toddler has reignited calls for stricter building regulations in the FCT.
In many Nigerian communities, poorly managed compounds with open soakaways, unsealed boreholes, and uncompleted structures have become dangerous playgrounds for children.
“This is more than one man’s fault; it reflects our systemic failure to enforce safety laws,” said a child safety advocate.
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The suspect remains in police custody.
According to officials, he may face charges ranging from criminal negligence to manslaughter, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
Community members have since covered the septic tank, but it was too late to save a life.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
