By Deborah Nnamdi
Tragedy struck the Amakpu Okuku community in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State on Friday morning, as a man identified simply as Odomma was found dead, allegedly after taking his own life.
Odomma, believed to be in his 50s and a father of four, earned a living selling water in jerry cans and buckets. According to residents, he had been struggling with severe financial hardship and could no longer provide for his family.
His body was discovered hanging in an unfinished building near his home by passersby early in the morning.
Villagers said Odomma had previously threatened to take his own life about three months ago, alleging that his wife and children had stopped giving him food due to his inability to support the household.
A community member, Ikenna, told our correspondent: “He shared his frustrations with some of us. We advised him to report the matter to the village head. He kept saying that if things didn’t change, he would end his life. Sadly, he meant it. He could have sold his GP tank or generator to survive, but he gave up.”
Witnesses said dozens of residents rushed to the scene after news of the incident spread, with many gathering around the building to confirm the tragedy and record videos on their phones.
Odomma, who was known for his hard work and affordable water supply—often priced from N100—was described as visibly depressed in recent months.
When contacted, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, said he would confirm the incident with the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Owerri West. However, further efforts to reach him were unsuccessful, as his line remained unreachable.
