Oyo Police Warn of Rising Drowning Cases, Urge Churches, Hotels, and Parents to Ensure Safety

The Oyo State Police Command has raised serious concerns over a recent surge in drowning incidents across the state, urging religious organizations, hotels, recreational facilities, and parents to adopt strict safety measures. The advisory, issued on January 8, 2026, emphasizes that negligence around rivers, dams, wells, swimming pools, and other water bodies has led to avoidable deaths.

In a statement signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer, church leaders were specifically warned to ensure that worship centers near natural water bodies provide adequate supervision during religious activities, discouraging unsupervised access by children. Hotel and resort operators were also reminded of their legal and moral responsibilities to maintain safe premises, with swimming pools clearly marked, supervised, and equipped with functional rescue tools. Trained instructors, lifeguards, and swimming tutors were encouraged to reduce drowning risks.

Parents and guardians were advised to closely monitor children around water, including wells and rivers, and ensure that all wells at home are securely covered and access restricted. Damaged or corroded covers should be repaired immediately to prevent tragedies.

Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, described the loss of lives through drowning as unacceptable and avoidable, calling for collective responsibility in ensuring public safety. The police urged residents to remain vigilant, report emergencies promptly, and continue supporting the force in protecting lives and property across Oyo State.

This alert underscores the importance of proactive safety measures, particularly in communities near natural water bodies, and highlights the role of institutions and parents in preventing drowning accidents.

Oyo Police Warn of Rising Drowning Cases, Urge Churches, Hotels, and Parents to Ensure Safety The Oyo State Police Command has raised serious concerns over a recent surge in drowning incidents across the state, urging religious organizations, hotels, recreational facilities, and parents to adopt strict safety measures. The advisory, issued on January 8, 2026, emphasizes that negligence around rivers, dams, wells, swimming pools, and other water bodies has led to avoidable deaths. In a statement signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer, church leaders were specifically warned to ensure that worship centers near natural water bodies provide adequate supervision during religious activities, discouraging unsupervised access by children. Hotel and resort operators were also reminded of their legal and moral responsibilities to maintain safe premises, with swimming pools clearly marked, supervised, and equipped with functional rescue tools. Trained instructors, lifeguards, and swimming tutors were encouraged to reduce drowning risks. Parents and guardians were advised to closely monitor children around water, including wells and rivers, and ensure that all wells at home are securely covered and access restricted. Damaged or corroded covers should be repaired immediately to prevent tragedies. Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, described the loss of lives through drowning as unacceptable and avoidable, calling for collective responsibility in ensuring public safety. The police urged residents to remain vigilant, report emergencies promptly, and continue supporting the force in protecting lives and property across Oyo State. This alert underscores the importance of proactive safety measures, particularly in communities near natural water bodies, and highlights the role of institutions and parents in preventing drowning accidents.
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