Operatives of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps, popularly known as Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), have rescued a mother and her five-month-old daughter from a canal at Abule-Ado along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. The dramatic rescue took place on Wednesday during a routine clearance operation in the area. KAI personnel discovered the woman and infant inside the canal and immediately intervened to ensure their safety. The agency’s spokesperson, Lukman Ajayi, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Ajayi stated that the operatives became alarmed upon spotting the mother and child in the canal, especially since the woman was unable to provide a clear or satisfactory explanation for their presence there. The baby was found in a visibly unhealthy condition, which heightened concerns for both lives. Acting swiftly, the KAI team provided first aid and transported the pair to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. “Today, our operatives rescued a mother and her five-month-old baby girl from a canal at Abule-Ado during routine clearance operations on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway,” Ajayi said.
According to the spokesperson, the woman claimed she had left her husband, who resides in FESTAC, but could not explain how she ended up in the canal with her infant. “The mother could not give a satisfactory answer as to why they were there, and she only said she was running from her husband, who lived in FESTAC,” Ajayi added. Despite the lack of clarity surrounding the circumstances, KAI prioritized the immediate safety and health of the mother and child.
The child’s condition at the time of rescue was particularly worrying, prompting the operatives to seek professional medical care without delay. “Both the mother and the child have been taken to the hospital. The child was not in a good state of health when they were rescued,” Ajayi noted. The hospital is currently assessing both individuals, and further details are expected to emerge as medical evaluations continue.
This incident underscores the critical role played by environmental agencies like KAI in safeguarding public welfare beyond sanitation duties. Their routine patrols often lead to life-saving interventions, especially in high-risk areas such as drainage canals along major highways. The rescue has drawn attention to broader social issues, including domestic violence and maternal vulnerability, which may require coordinated efforts from government and civil society.
As investigations into the mother’s circumstances continue, authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious or distressing situations. The story highlights how vigilance and swift action can prevent tragedies. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of community support systems for women and children in crisis.
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