A 12 year old girl identified as Ella, reportedly from Ohafia in Abia State, has been swept away by floodwater following heavy rainfall in Agbama, Umuahia.
According to a social media appeal by concerned residents, the incident occurred at about 7 p.m. when Ella was reportedly sent to purchase an item along the Express Road despite the heavy downpour.
The girl was said to have completed the errand and was returning when she allegedly slipped and was swept into a gutter by fast-moving floodwater.
Concerned residents, including the girl’s relatives and some youths, reportedly mobilised a search operation, extending the search to an area identified as Umuafai.
The search continued for several hours amid the rainfall, with those involved hoping to locate the missing girl.
The circumstances surrounding the incident have also raised concerns about the welfare of the child and other underage children who may be placed in domestic service.
The person with whom Ella reportedly stayed was said to have returned home while the search continued. There were also allegations that other underage domestic workers who previously stayed with the woman may have suffered mistreatment. These allegations have not been independently verified.
The development has renewed calls for parents and guardians to exercise caution when sending children into domestic service and to ensure that minors are protected from situations that could endanger their lives or welfare.
Members of the public with information that could assist in locating Ella are urged to contact the appropriate emergency and security authorities.
Original appeal/video:
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/19MbyLn8Kb/
