Remembering the Fatal Lightning Strike at Army Day Secondary School, Effurun

I am documenting a tragic event at Army Day Secondary School, Effurun, that appears to be missing from online archives. It occurred around October 2004 or 2005, shortly after school closing time, when some students stayed behind for extra lessons. A heavy downpour began with intense thunder and lightning. Some students playing football on the field fell but survived. A lightning strike reportedly hit the main tarred road near the school and a roadside shade where people had taken cover. Seven people reportedly died, including three students, a pregnant motorcycle passenger, the rider, and a roadside mechanic. Several other students and bystanders were knocked unconscious and taken to the nearby Army Hospital. The school later built a memorial grave on its grounds, where students held prayer services and laid flowers. I share this account to preserve the memory of those who died, including my classmates Oghenero and Tidings. May their souls continue to rest in peace.

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