A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Kaduna State, as a 34-year-old National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) graduate, Bryant Michael Ogah, tragically ended his life shortly after completing his service year.
Bryant, who had recently participated in the Passing-Out Parade in Chikun Local Government Area, reportedly ingested a harmful substance, suspected to be snipper, in a hotel room within the Television area of Kaduna South.
The deceased’s mother, Mrs. Ogah, tearfully recounted her son’s prolonged struggle with mental health challenges, which had plagued him for over 12 years. Despite the family’s relentless efforts to provide comfort and encouragement, Bryant succumbed to the emotional toll of his condition.
“Bryant was our first son and always aspired to contribute to the family’s growth, but his mental health challenges hindered him from achieving his dreams,” Mrs. Ogah said. “We told him his presence alone gave us joy, but he felt he was a burden to us.”
The Events Leading to His Death
On December 23, 2024, Bryant informed his family that he was visiting a friend in a nearby community. Unbeknownst to them, it was a pretext to execute his plan. Instead of going to his friend’s residence, he checked into a hotel in Kaduna South.
According to Mrs. Ogah, Bryant stayed in the hotel room for 24 hours without coming out. Concerned hotel staff knocked on the door, and when there was no response, they forced it open, finding him unconscious but still breathing.
He was rushed to a hospital but succumbed shortly after being admitted.
Public Response
The Kaduna State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation. The command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, stated, “We are looking into the matter to uncover all the details surrounding this tragedy.”
A Mother’s Pain
Mrs. Ogah described Bryant’s battle with mental health as a source of deep shame and embarrassment for him. “He wanted to rewrite the family’s story for good, but his challenges overwhelmed him,” she lamented.
The tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the impact of mental health issues and the importance of providing adequate support systems for individuals struggling with emotional challenges.
