Man kills self in Imo over hardship

A tragic incident occurred on Friday morning in Amakpu Okuku community, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, when a man in his 50s, identified only as Odomma, was discovered dead, reportedly by suicide.

Residents revealed that Odomma, a father of four who sold water in jerry cans and buckets, had long been grappling with financial hardship, leaving him unable to provide adequately for his family.

His body was found hanging in an unfinished building near his home as locals went about their daily routines.

According to villagers, Odomma had threatened to take his own life about three months ago, expressing frustration that his wife and children had allegedly stopped providing him with food because of his inability to support the family.

A community member, Ikenna, stated that Odomma had stated “if the situation continued, he would take his life to end the misery.
“We advised him to report the matter to the village head for settlement. Sadly, he chose this path. Just see how this man ended his life because of money. He could have sold his GP tank or generator to get food, but he decided to take his life. Now others will gather to eat and he won’t be part of it.”

Eyewitnesses reported that dozens of residents rushed to the scene after hearing the news, gathering around the unfinished building and capturing videos of the lifeless body on their phones.

Odomma, who was well-known in the community for his water sales ranging from ₦100 upwards, was described as hardworking but had appeared visibly depressed in recent months.

When contacted, Imo State Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye said he would confirm the incident with the Divisional Police Officer in Owerri West.

“Please give me some minutes to call and confirm from the DPO of Owerri West Local Government Area. I will get back to you shortly,” he said. Subsequent attempts to reach him, however, were unsuccessful.

(PUNCH)