LAFIA, Nigeria – Tragedy struck the Agyaragu community in Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State on Sunday evening when five children, aged between six and ten, were found dead inside an abandoned vehicle, allegedly due to suffocation.
The incident was confirmed by the Nasarawa State Police Command in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, on Monday. According to the police, the grim discovery was made after a report was filed by a local resident, Mr Ozimna Ogbor, who alerted the authorities around 5:30 p.m.
“Upon arrival, the officers found the victims locked inside the abandoned vehicle,” Nansel said. “They were promptly evacuated to Aro Hospital, Agyaragu, where a medical doctor regrettably confirmed all of them dead due to suspected suffocation.”
The lifeless bodies were discovered in a disused, unserviceable vehicle reportedly parked within the residential compound of one Mr Abu Agyeme. The circumstances under which the children gained access to the vehicle remain unclear, prompting immediate concern from local authorities.
Nansel noted that the children had suffered severe heat burns, likely as a result of being trapped in the car for an extended period under intense heat. Their remains were released to their grieving families upon request for burial.
The Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State, Shetima Jauro-Mohammed, has since ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident to determine exactly how the tragedy occurred. He expressed profound sorrow over the deaths and extended condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the command.
“This heartbreaking incident is a painful reminder of a similar tragedy that occurred in August 2019,” Nansel remarked, alluding to a past case where children died under similar circumstances in the state.
Commissioner Jauro-Mohammed also issued a stern warning to parents, guardians, and vehicle owners, urging them to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
“Vehicle owners must ensure that abandoned or parked vehicles are properly secured and inaccessible to children,” he said. “Parents and guardians are also advised to supervise their children closely and educate them about the dangers of playing in or around vehicles.”
The incident has left the Agyaragu community in deep mourning, with many residents expressing shock and sadness. Local leaders have called for greater public awareness and community efforts to ensure the safety of children, especially in residential areas where such hazards exist.
As the police continue their investigation, the authorities have appealed for calm and cooperation from the public, assuring that those found culpable through negligence or otherwise will be held accountable.
Meanwhile, community members have begun mobilising support for the affected families, while advocacy groups renewed calls for child safety campaigns across the state.
The Nasarawa State Police Command reiterated its commitment to uncovering the full facts surrounding the deaths and ensuring that justice is served.
