A 12 year old still drowned in flood waters in Edo State

On Monday, July 7, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Uselu community, Egor Local Government Area, Edo State, where 12-year-old Master Nathan Paul Spencer lost his life after being swept away by floodwaters.

The young student was on his way to write the Middle Basic Assessment Examination during a heavy downpour that caused severe flooding in the area. The Edo State Government has taken swift action, including shutting down schools and arresting a school official, in response to the incident.

Details of the Incident

According to Edo State Commissioner for Education Paddy Iyamu, Nathan’s death was linked to negligence by his school’s management. The school, located in Ovia Local Government, collected registration fees from Nathan’s parents but failed to inform them that he would be writing the examination at another school in Egor Local Government. During the heavy rainfall, Nathan fell into a gutter and drowned while attempting to reach the examination venue.

During a condolence visit to Nathan’s family, Iyamu revealed that an investigation uncovered the school’s mismanagement. The state government responded by withdrawing the licenses of two schools involved in the incident and arresting the head of one school. 

Additionally, two other schools were closed for illegally collecting fees from over 200 pupils. Iyamu emphasized, “Further action would be taken to effect consequence on the management,” signaling stricter measures to prevent such negligence.

Official and Family Response

Commissioner Iyamu expressed deep condolences to Nathan’s family, assuring them that those responsible would face accountability. He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing negligence and ensuring justice.

Nathan’s father, Mr. Paul Spencer, shared that he was unaware his son had been registered to write the exam at a distant location. He expressed gratitude to the state government for their support during this period of grief.