Two yet-to-be identified female friends lost their lives while they shot a TikTok video. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, January 20, 2024, in Second Amekpa, a community within the Ekiugbo-Ughelli area of Ughelli North Local Government in Delta State, Nigeria.
The victims, whose identities remain undisclosed, were in the company of two young men identified as Goodluck and Daniel when the unfortunate incident occurred. Sources suggest that the group had gathered at the riverbank to create content for the popular social media platform TikTok.
Eyewitnesses reported that the group decided to venture into the river, presumably to film videos for their TikTok accounts. However, the outing took a tragic turn, resulting in the drowning of the two young women.
As captured in a graphic video obtained by authorities, the lifeless body of one of the girls was recovered from the water, while the other remains missing at the time of reporting. The distressing footage underscores the severity of the incident and the immediate danger the group faced.
In the aftermath, the community was left in shock as witnesses reportedly fled the scene, leaving the girls unattended. It is unclear why the onlookers did not intervene or seek help during the critical moments.
In response to the incident, local law enforcement swiftly took action, apprehending one of the young men, Goodluck, while the other, Daniel, is currently evading authorities.
The circumstances surrounding the tragic drowning have prompted concerns about the risks associated with social media challenges and stunts, particularly among the younger demographic. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that may arise when individuals prioritise online engagement over personal safety.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution when participating in social media trends and to be mindful of the potential risks, especially in outdoor settings. As investigations into the incident continue, the community mourns the loss of two young lives and reflects on the need for increased awareness regarding the consequences of risky online behaviour.
