Woman Who Plunged into Lagos Lagoon Rescued by Soldiers
By Kamil Opeyemi
Men of the Nigerian Army have rescued a woman after she attempted suicide, jumping into the lagoon in Lagos. The Army said the woman, whose name was given as Mrs. Fransesca Spark, was spotted jumping into the lagoon by eagle-eyed operatives who thereafter used their experience in marine operations to bring her out.
Confirming the development on Monday, Acting Deputy Director of Information of the Army, Lt. Col. Olalekan Ayeni, said the woman was handed over to her family. “Nigerian Army (NA) soldiers operating under 81 Division NA have gallantly prevented a suicide attempt by one Mrs Francesca Spark who plunged into the Lagos Lagoon around 81 Division Officers’ Mess, Marina Lagos in an attempt to take her own life.
“The troops of 65 Battalion NA deployed at the Officers’ Mess, who sighted Mrs Spark quickly used their military riverine skills and ingenuity to rescue her. She was given first aid and stabilized by the battalion medical team. After stabilization, the family was contacted and she was handed over to her husband, one Mr Spark Oghene Ovie residing at Awoyaya Lagos. ”
For the rescue, he said the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Muhammed Takuti Usman commended the soldiers for being observant. He quoted the GOC as saying he was pleased that soldiers brought their training in disaster management to bear in such a critical situation that could have claimed the life of a fellow citizen.
“Maj Gen Usman who said such an operation is a military operation other than war conducted during emergencies or natural disasters affirmed that troops have been trained to support leading agencies during emergencies.
“He assured residents of the NA’s commitment to protect them and their properties even during emergencies.”