Africa: Nigerian tourism firm mourns death of colleague after hiking accident

A Nigerian tourism firm, The Outdoor Tribe, has mourned the death of one of its colleagues who passed away following a hiking incident that occurred at Farin Ruwa waterfalls, one of the country’s tourist sites over the weekend.

The deceased, Stephen Tikyaa had gone out for a picnic with a group of tourists numbering 60 when the tragic incident occurred at the waterfalls in Nasarawa State.

A statement by the company said the victim drowned while he went for a swim with other members of the group.

The statement said: “It is with heavy hearts we @thaoutdoortribe convey this update on the unfortunate incident that occurred over the weekend, the passing away of our dear friend and member, Stephen Tikyaa(@stephan_tk).”

“On Saturday 23/01/2021, a group of 60 friends from ThaOutdoorTribe went for a picnic at Farin Ruwa waterfalls, Nasarawa State. Tragically, one of our members Stephen Tikyaa who went for a swim in the waterfall with other members drowned and unfortunately passed away at the scene. Multiple attempts by other members and the safety team to rescue Stephen from drowning failed in the face of prevailing currents, and the naturally freezing temperatures of the Farin Ruwa Waterfalls. Despite our best efforts, we were unable to save him. Sadly his body could not be recovered that day.”

“Stephens family was contacted on the same day. They arrived at the police division command on Sunday the 24/01/2021 where we reported the case.
At our request professional divers were called in to help recover his body in the presence of his father and family, and handed over to be transported back to their hometown.”

“The family of the deceased have chosen not to press the matter further and appreciate efforts that were made to rescue Stephen and recover his corpse.”

“Contrary to what has been going about online, Stephen was not missing nor was he left behind. We make this statement with the consent of the family and ask that the public calm the false rhetoric going on online.”

“We @ThaOutdoorTribe and the rest of the hiking community in Abuja commiserate with the family on what is a very difficult loss for one of ours. To everyone who is understandably shaken by the incident, we acknowledge your concern and ask that you join us in keeping Stephen’s soul in your prayers.”

“As the family prepares for final rites, we @ThaOutdoorTribe will continue to do everything possible to help with the transition. Details will follow shortly for a candle light service, fund me campaign for the family and an online zoom session for attendees of the picnic to talk through any trauma they might still be experiencing and to help bring closure to this sad event.”