The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has arrested a resident of Durumi 2, Abuja, in connection with the tragic death of a three-year-old boy who drowned in an uncovered septic tank.
The incident occurred around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2025. The suspect, identified as Philip Jallo, was taken into custody by officers from the Durumi Divisional Headquarters shortly after the event.
According to preliminary investigations, the child had been playing within the residential compound when he accidentally slipped and fell into the exposed septic tank, which was filled with human waste. He was rescued from the tank but was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
The FCT Police Command said the tank had long been a known hazard in the neighbourhood. Several residents had reportedly warned Jallo to secure the opening, but he allegedly ignored the repeated appeals.
“The uncovered soakaway was left dangerously exposed, despite warnings from concerned neighbours. The suspect’s negligence has now led to a tragic and entirely avoidable death,” the Command said in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh.
The FCT Commissioner of Police expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the child’s family. He urged residents to be proactive in ensuring environmental safety and called on parents and guardians to closely monitor their children.
“This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of how negligence can have fatal consequences. We appeal to all residents to make safety a priority in their homes and surroundings,” the Commissioner said.
The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue. The FCT Police reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and holding accountable anyone whose negligence endangers public safety, especially that of vulnerable children.
