The Near Drowning Incident

I will never forget an incident when Bode Oyewole saved the life of one of our mates when we were in Form Four.

This was soon after we were taught about fish and body parts in the Biology class. The teacher then took us in two batches to a natural fish pond at Eleyele area for practical lessons. As soon as the teacher left to fetch the second batch, the eight of us in the first batch jumped into a canoe anchored at the pond.

As each boy jumped inside, the canoe moved farther away. I quickly jumped out as soon as I noticed that movement, followed by others. Before the last boy could jump out, the canoe had gone far into the water. The boy shouted for help but we could not help as we were all so scared. Out of fear, the boy just jumped into the water, but could not swim.

Sensing the imminent danger, Bode immediately dived into the pond, went after the boy and safely rescued him. Since that incident, I always ensured that I kept a respectable distance anytime I went near ponds or rivers or even swimming pools.

Submitted by: Ogundipe Solomon