Toddler dies after falling into pit in Kogi

A toddler named Saida Haruna has died after falling into a pit in Aloko Bassa Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The incident happened on Sunday when Saida was coming back from Islamic school.

A Facebook user, Muhammed Idris, shared photos of Saida and her father. He said the girl fell into a pit that her brother and another boy had dug behind their house.

Idris wrote, “Saida Haruna woke up this morning and went to Islamic School (Karate). After returning home, she went behind their house where there was a pit dug by her own brother and another boy.

“She bent down to look inside the pit, lost her balance, fell inside and died immediately.

“The death of the innocent child has thrown the entire community into mourning. A small hole dug for play has now killed a person. Everyone is crying for the innocent child.”

Idris also asked for prayers for the grieving family.

On Monday, the Kogi State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Oyiza Saliu, told PUNCH Metro that they have referred the matter to the Divisional Police Officer in that area.

“We have forwarded it to the DPO. He will soon release information about it,” the police spokesperson's office said.

The incident has caused many reactions on Facebook. Users expressed shock over how the toddler died, especially the depth and purpose of the pit.

One user, David Shauib, questioned the situation, writing, “I know the father, but how deep is the hole that will kill a child? Just a playing hole? Not even a soakaway? Haba.”

Another user, IruDestiny Eze, said, “What kind of joke is this? Small hole? Are people not around? And what is the hole for in God’s name? Please, may her soul rest in peace. Haba, what is all this?”

Others sent their condolences to the family.

Daniel Momoh wrote, “May God console the family for this uncommon tragedy and may the little one’s soul rest in peace.”

Another user, Momoh Umoru, added, “May Allah forgive her shortcomings and grant her Aljannatul Firdausi.”