Police rescue 23-year-old after jumping into Lagos lagoon
Marine Police Rescue 23-Year-Old from Lagos Lagoon
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Marine Police Unit of the Lagos State Police Command successfully rescued a 23-year-old man, identified as Joshua Babalola, who attempted to take his own life by jumping into the Lagos lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge. The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on June 8, 2026.
Authorities reported that they received information about the plunge and promptly mobilized marine police operatives to the scene. With assistance from local fishermen, the team was able to rescue Babalola alive.
Babalola, a painter residing in the Iwo Road area of Ibadan, Oyo State, stated that he had traveled to Lagos earlier that day without informing anyone. He cited financial hardships and feelings of hopelessness as factors leading to his decision to jump. He also mentioned that his mobile phone was lost in the water during the incident.
Lagos State Police spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that Babalola had been stabilized and was under police care. Efforts are underway to contact his family.
“He was rescued with the help of fishermen in the area. He is the second person in three months to be rescued from the lagoon,” Adebisi said.
The spokesperson underscored the importance of public collaboration for effective policing and emergency response. “Prompt and credible information from residents is crucial in preventing and combating incidents,” Adebisi emphasized.
The police urge community leaders, boat operators, fishermen, and residents in riverine areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local police or the marine unit.
The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property in the region and called on residents to cooperate with security agencies.
