Two individuals are currently unaccounted for after one of them is believed to have jumped into the Asa River in Ilorin, Kwara State, in what appears to be a suicide attempt, while the other entered the water attempting a rescue. The incident was reported at approximately 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, 17 October, at the Asa Bridge on Emir’s Road.
**What happened?**
The first man, identified as Abubakar, reportedly ran toward the river following an altercation that left another party injured and then plunged into the water. Shortly after, Nasiru, a 42‑year‑old bystander who tried to intervene, also entered the river and is now presumed drowned.
**Who are the key agencies involved?**
The [Kwara State Fire Service](https://fireservice.kwarastate.gov.ng) confirmed that its personnel were dispatched immediately after receiving a distress call. Firefighters have been conducting a multi‑hour search along the riverbank but have not yet recovered either individual.
**Official response**
In a statement, the service’s Public Relations Officer, Hassan Hakeem Adekunle, said that crews were mobilised straight away and would continue the operation until the missing men are found. The Chief Fire Officer, Alabi Muhammed, was present on site to oversee the rescue efforts.
**Safety advice**
Muhammed urged residents to refrain from entering rivers or any water bodies during disputes or emergencies, recommending that they contact trained emergency responders instead. He also appealed for calm among the public and emphasized the importance of prioritising personal safety.
The fire service reiterated that the search remains ongoing and promised to issue further updates as new information becomes available.