Flood claims life of motorcyclist in Ekpoma

The academic community of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, has been thrown into mourning after a commercial motorcyclist was swept away by floodwaters following a heavy downpour.

The tragic incident, which occurred on Uwenlenbo Road near Zekor Hotel in Ekpoma, was captured in a viral video that has since circulated widely across social media platforms, sparking fresh outrage over the worsening erosion and poor drainage systems in many parts of Edo State.

Horror on Uwenlenbo Road

In the footage, the motorcyclist — carrying a female passenger — was seen struggling against the raging flood before being overpowered by the strong current. Eyewitnesses narrated that despite attempts to rescue him, the force of the erosion swept him away while onlookers shouted helplessly.

The video also showed sympathizers displaying the victim’s motorcycle plate number in a bid to help identify him, urging anyone who knew him or his family to come forward. His female passenger was reportedly rescued, though shaken by the ordeal.

Growing Concern Over Erosion in Edo

The incident has heightened concerns over the increasing threat of erosion and uncontrolled flooding in Ekpoma and other parts of Edo State. Many residents say the lack of proper water channels, poor urban planning and years of neglect by successive governments have worsened the situation.

“This is not the first time flood will claim lives in this town. The government must wake up,” said one witness, describing the tragedy as avoidable if proper drainage had been in place.

Calls for Government Action

The tragedy has triggered renewed calls for urgent intervention by both the Edo State Government and federal authorities. Community leaders and concerned citizens are urging the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Ecological Fund Office, and the state’s Ministry of Environment to prioritize erosion control measures in vulnerable areas of the state.

For now, the AAU community and residents of Ekpoma are left in grief, as search efforts continue for the body of the victim, whose fate underscores the devastating human cost of Edo’s erosion crisis.