Tragedy struck Amakpu Okuku community in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State on Friday morning when a middle-aged man, identified simply as Odomma, was found dead after allegedly taking his own life.
The deceased, said to be in his 50s and a father of four, earned a living by selling water in jerry cans and buckets. Residents disclosed that he had battled prolonged financial difficulties which left him unable to cater for his family.
His body was reportedly discovered hanging in an uncompleted building close to his residence as villagers headed out for their morning activities.
According to community members, Odomma had repeatedly voiced his frustrations, lamenting that his wife and children had allegedly stopped providing him meals because he could no longer meet their needs. Some recalled that he had threatened to end his life about three months earlier.
A resident, Ikenna, told reporters that friends had advised him to seek mediation from the village leadership.
“He said if the situation continued, he would take his life to end the misery. We advised him to report to the village head for settlement, but sadly, he chose this path. Just see how this man ended his life because of money,” Ikenna said.
Eyewitnesses said news of his death drew tens of residents to the scene, with many crowding the uncompleted building and filming the incident with their phones.
Community members described Odomma as hardworking and well patronised for his water sales, but noted that he had appeared visibly depressed in recent months.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in Imo State, Henry Okoye, said he would confirm the incident with the Divisional Police Officer of 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. However, subsequent attempts to reach him were unsuccessful as his phone line remained unreachable.