A tragic incident unfolded in Durumi 2, Abuja, as a three-year-old boy lost his life after falling into an uncovered septic tank, leading to the arrest of a man identified as Philip Jallo by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command.
The heart-wrenching event occurred around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2025. Residents of the area, who have been visibly disturbed by the occurrence, allege that Jallo—believed to be the owner of the compound—had been repeatedly warned about the danger the exposed soakaway posed, particularly to children. However, he reportedly failed to act.
According to police sources, initial investigations revealed that the pit, which was filled with human waste, had been left uncovered for a long time. Concerned neighbours are said to have raised the alarm several times, urging Jallo to take corrective measures, all of which were allegedly ignored.
The young victim, whose identity has not yet been made public, was reportedly playing within the premises of the residential compound when he accidentally slipped into the open soakaway. Despite efforts to rescue him and rush him to a nearby medical facility, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
In an official statement released on Friday, FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed that officers from the Durumi Divisional Headquarters had taken Jallo into custody and launched an investigation into the incident.
“Police operatives attached to Durumi Divisional Headquarters have arrested one Philip Jallo, male, of Durumi 2, Abuja, following a heart-rending tragedy that occurred on July 16, 2025, at about 9:00 p.m. A three-year-old boy drowned in an uncovered septic tank filled with faeces in a residential compound, which was allegedly left open by the suspect, despite repeated complaints by neighbours,” the police spokesperson said.
Reacting to the incident, the FCT Commissioner of Police expressed profound sorrow and extended condolences to the grieving family. He emphasized the importance of environmental safety and warned residents to address potential hazards within their properties to avoid preventable tragedies.
“The suspect is currently in custody. The Commissioner of Police, FCT, has expressed his deep sadness over this avoidable incident and sent his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family,” SP Adeh added.
She further urged all residents to prioritize safety in their surroundings and advised parents and guardians to be vigilant, ensuring that their children are properly supervised to avoid similar incidents.
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