55-year-old man rescued alive after falling into manhole in Lagos

A 55-year-old man who accidentally fell into an underground drainage channel along Ikorodu Road, near Idiroko Bus Stop inward Maryland, was rescued alive by operatives of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service.

The agency said it received a distress call on Saturday at about 12:24 p.m., prompting an immediate response from firefighters attached to the Ilupeju Fire Station.

Confirming the incident, the Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs Margaret Adeseye, said the rescue team arrived at the scene around 12:45 p.m. and swiftly commenced a coordinated operation using specialized confined-space rescue equipment.

“Upon arrival, our personnel discovered that a middle-aged man had accidentally fallen into an underground manhole. The team immediately began a delicate rescue operation using appropriate safety procedures to ensure his safe recovery,” Adeseye stated.

After several hours of intense work, the victim was successfully rescued alive and handed over to officers from the Anthony Police Division for further assistance.

The operation, which drew the attention of onlookers, was completed and the area secured by 3:41 p.m.

Adeseye commended her team for their professionalism and quick response, reiterating the agency’s commitment to saving lives and safeguarding property across Lagos State.

She also urged residents to be cautious around open or damaged drainage channels, emphasizing the need for community vigilance and prompt reporting of such hazards to prevent future accidents.