By Oluwatosin Maliki
A lady identified as Francesca Spark has been rescued by troops of the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, as they prevented her from drowning in the Lagos Lagoon.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 81 Division, Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni on Monday.
The statement read, “Nigerian Army (NA) soldiers operating under 81 Division NA have gallantly prevented a suicide attempt by one Mrs Francesca Spark who plunged into the Lagos Lagoon around 81 Division Officers’ Mess, Marina Lagos in an attempt to take her own life”.
Furthermore, “The troops of 65 Battalion NA deployed at the Officers’ Mess, who sighted Mrs Spark quickly used their military riverine skills and ingenuity to rescue her. She was given first aid and stabilized by the battalion medical team.”
It was reportedly said that after she was stabilised, “the family was contacted and she was handed over to her husband, one Mr Spark Oghene Ovie residing at Awoyaya Lagos”.
Following the rescue mission, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Muhammed Usman commended the soldiers for their gallantry and swift response in rescuing the lady.
He stated, “The GOC said he is pleased that soldiers brought their training in disaster management to bear in such a critical situation that could have claimed the life of a fellow citizen”.
“Maj Gen Usman who said such an operation is a military operation other than war conducted during emergencies or natural disasters affirmed that troops have been trained to support leading agencies during emergencies”.
Additionally, General Muhammed Usman further assured residents of the Army’s resolve to continue protecting the lives and properties even during emergencies.