Man arrested after 3-Year-Old boy drowns in open septic tank in Abuja

A man identified as Philip Jallo has been arrested by police operatives from the Durumi Divisional Headquarters under the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command following the tragic death of a 3-year-old boy who drowned in an uncovered septic tank in Durumi 2, Abuja.

The heartbreaking incident happened around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, when the child, said to be playing within the compound, accidentally fell into the exposed soakaway filled with human waste.

According to a statement from the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the suspect was arrested on grounds of gross negligence after he allegedly ignored repeated warnings from neighbours to cover the hazardous septic tank.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the uncovered soakaway had long posed a danger to residents in the area,” Adeh stated. “Several warnings and pleas were reportedly made by concerned neighbours to the suspect, who failed to take the necessary action.”

The child was later pulled out of the tank and rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Jallo remains in custody as investigations continue. Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and offered his condolences to the grieving family.

He also urged residents to prioritise environmental safety, emphasizing that all potential hazards must be addressed to prevent avoidable tragedies.

“Parents and guardians must be vigilant and ensure their wards are properly monitored at all times to prevent such needless loss of life,” the commissioner added.

The police have assured the public of their commitment to ensuring accountability in matters that pose risks to public safety.