Tragic Drowning of 60-Year-Old Man, Babatunde Adeniran, After Falling into Obasanjo River in Ondo State

 

A deeply saddening incident occurred on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, when a 60-year-old man, identified as Babatunde Adeniran, tragically drowned after falling into the Obasanjo River in Ondo State. This unfortunate event has raised concerns about road safety during heavy rainfall, the dangers posed by flooded waterways, and the need for increased public awareness around such hazards.

What Happened? Detailed Account of the Incident

On the day of the incident, Babatunde Adeniran was riding his motorcycle along the Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway near Alakuko. This area is known for its heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. On that day, however, conditions were made significantly more dangerous due to a heavy downpour that had been ongoing in the region. The rainstorm had caused the roads to become slippery and the surrounding environment to flood, creating a high-risk scenario for all road users.

Eyewitnesses later recounted that as Adeniran was navigating through this challenging weather, he lost control of his motorcycle and fell off. The strong currents caused by the floodwaters swept him and his motorcycle away. The floodwaters, rising rapidly due to the incessant rain, posed an immediate threat to his life.

His motorcycle was eventually recovered later the same day, May 20. However, despite search and rescue efforts, Babatunde Adeniran’s body was not found until the next morning. On May 21 at around 9 am, his lifeless body was discovered in the Obasanjo River in Ota, Ogun State.

The incident has since been reported to the relevant authorities, and the body was promptly taken to a public morgue where an autopsy has been ordered to confirm the exact cause of death.

Eyewitness Accounts and Official Reports

The incident highlights the severe risks motorists face during the rainy season in Nigeria, especially on busy highways such as the Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway, which connects several major cities. One eyewitness at the scene said:

“He was riding his motorcycle in heavy rain, and suddenly, he lost balance and fell. The floodwater was strong, and it dragged him along with the bike. It was heartbreaking to watch, but there was nothing we could do immediately.”

This statement sheds light on the helplessness of bystanders during sudden accidents, especially under extreme weather conditions.

The local police confirmed the recovery of the motorcycle on May 20 and the discovery of the body on the following day. A police spokesperson said:

“The motorcycle was found on the evening of May 20, but the victim’s body was located only the next day in the river. We have handed over the body to the morgue for a proper post-mortem examination.”

Understanding the Dangers of Riding Motorcycles in Heavy Rainfall

This tragic death serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that Nigerian road users face, particularly motorcyclists, during the rainy season. Nigeria experiences intense rainfall from April to October, and during this period, road accidents increase sharply due to slippery roads, reduced visibility, and flooding.

Motorcycles, while a popular and affordable means of transportation, especially in urban and peri-urban areas, offer very little protection to riders compared to cars. When combined with flooded roads and sudden heavy rains, the risk of accidents and fatalities escalates dramatically.

The Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway, in particular, is notorious for flooding during the rainy season, causing traffic congestion and sometimes accidents. Local authorities have often been urged to improve drainage systems along the highway to mitigate these problems.

The Impact of Flooding on Road Safety in Nigeria

Flooding is one of the biggest hazards on Nigerian roads during the rainy season. Heavy rains often overwhelm existing drainage infrastructure, leading to widespread water accumulation on highways and streets. For motorcyclists like Babatunde Adeniran, navigating through these floodwaters can be perilous.

Floodwaters can conceal potholes, debris, and other obstacles on the road, increasing the likelihood of falls and collisions. Additionally, the strong current from floodwater can sweep away riders and vehicles, as tragically happened in this case.

This incident underscores the urgent need for government agencies at all levels to prioritize infrastructure improvements and implement effective flood control measures. It also highlights the importance of educating road users on how to stay safe during heavy rains.

Community Reactions and Calls for Action

News of Babatunde Adeniran’s death has sparked sorrow and outrage among community members, families, and road safety advocates. Many have called for immediate action to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future.

One concerned citizen commented:

“This is very tragic. We lose so many people every rainy season because the roads are unsafe. Authorities must do more to fix drainage and educate riders about the dangers.”

Road safety organizations have reiterated the need for mandatory safety gear for motorcyclists, including helmets and rainproof clothing, which can reduce injuries during accidents. Some advocates also urge that local governments improve emergency response systems to ensure faster rescue efforts when accidents happen.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Such Tragedies?

Several steps can be taken to reduce the risks faced by motorcyclists and other road users during the rainy season in Nigeria:

1. Infrastructure Improvement: The government must invest in proper drainage systems, especially along major highways such as the Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway. Regular maintenance of drainage channels will help prevent flooding.

2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating motorcyclists and other drivers on the risks of riding in heavy rain and how to stay safe can save lives. Campaigns should include guidance on safe speeds, the importance of protective gear, and avoiding flooded areas.

3. Emergency Response: Improving coordination between traffic police, medical teams, and rescue services can ensure that victims of accidents receive timely help.

4. Enforcement of Safety Regulations: Stricter enforcement of helmet laws and regulations on motorcycle riding during adverse weather conditions can protect riders.

5. Alternative Transport Options: Promoting safer and more reliable public transport systems could reduce the reliance on motorcycles, which are more vulnerable during flooding.

Final Thoughts: Honoring the Memory of Babatunde Adeniran

The loss of Babatunde Adeniran is a stark reminder of the fragile nature of life on Nigerian roads, especially under harsh weather conditions. His death calls on all stakeholders — from government officials to everyday citizens — to take responsibility for improving road safety and preventing future tragedies.

As the rainy season continues, it is vital that motorcyclists, drivers, and pedestrians alike remain vigilant and cautious. While accidents cannot always be prevented, better infrastructure, education, and safety measures can significantly reduce the risk and save lives.

Babatunde Adeniran’s family and community mourn the loss of a beloved man who fell victim to a preventable tragedy. May his soul rest in peace, and may his death inspire greater efforts to protect lives on Nigerian roads.