A heartbreaking tragedy struck the Phase Two Extension area of Lokoja on Monday, as a two-year-old boy, Godwin Kumfa, reportedly drowned in the Meme River near his family’s residence.
The incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. behind the Navy Quarters, prompting a frantic search by the child’s parents and neighbours.
Godwin’s father, Mr. Mamtip Kumfa, a security guard at a private school, said he was alerted by a neighbour that his son had gone missing.
Upon rushing home, he met his wife desperately searching near the river.
According to Mr. Kumfa, his wife had briefly stepped away to gather sand, leaving the child by the riverside.
On returning, she discovered he was no longer there.
“She left Godwin by the river while she collected sand. Later, one of his shoes was found downstream near Arigbede, about 15 kilometers away,” he said tearfully. “Godwin is my only son.”
A family friend, Mr. Seun Babalola, who joined the search effort, confirmed that the child’s shoe was found along the river path. He also recalled a similar incident in the area.
“This same river claimed the life of another boy, seven-year-old Goodluck Friday, two years ago. It’s truly heartbreaking,” he said.
Godwin’s mother, Mrs. Lovina Kumfa, was inconsolable. Amid sobs, she pleaded for divine help.
“I only left him for a moment. When I came back, he was gone. God, please help me find my child,” she wept.
The local community has been left in shock, with neighbours and well-wishers offering support to the grieving family.
As of the time of this report, search efforts to locate the boy or recover his body were still ongoing.