From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A man identified as Nasiru, 42, has been reported missing in the river at Asa Bridge, along Emir’s Road, Ilorin, Kwara State, after reportedly entering the water during an attempt to intervene in an altercation involving two adults.
The incident occurred on Saturday, October 17, 2026, prompting the Kwara State Fire Service, to launch an intensive search and rescue operation that is yet to yield results as of the time of the agency’s latest report.
According to the Fire Service, the emergency team received a distress call and arrived at the scene at about 10:15 a.m., where it gathered information about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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Preliminary information indicated that an altercation had occurred between two adults, during which one person reportedly sustained an injury. A man identified as Abubakar was said to have run towards the river and jumped into it.
Nasiru, who reportedly attempted to intervene in the situation, also entered the river and was subsequently reported to have drowned.
The Fire Service said its personnel immediately commenced a search operation upon receiving the report, making concerted efforts to locate the missing man.
Despite several hours of searching, the operation is yet to produce the desired result, while firefighters remained at the scene to continue the search.
The Chief Fire Officer, Alabi Muhammed, was also present at the scene to provide leadership and oversee the rescue operation.
In his reaction, Alabi cautioned members of the public against entering rivers or other bodies of water during confrontations or emergencies, stressing the need to prioritise personal safety and seek assistance from the appropriate emergency response agencies.
He also urged residents to remain calm during disputes and allow trained emergency responders to handle dangerous situations rather than putting their lives at risk.
The Fire Service, through its Public Relations Officer, PFO Hassan Adekunle, said its personnel remained committed to the ongoing operation and would continue making every necessary effort to locate the missing man.
The agency added that further updates would be provided as more information became available.
