Elderly Man in Imo Commits Suicide Over Hardship, Hunger

An elderly man identified as Odomma from Amakpu Okuku in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State has reportedly taken his own life following prolonged hardship and inability to feed.

His body was discovered by members of the community on Friday morning as residents were heading out for work. Sources revealed that the deceased, who worked as a water vendor, had previously threatened to end his life after alleging that his wife and children had denied him food.

Community members said Odomma had often complained of severe hardship and the difficulty of providing for his family. According to Emeka, a resident, the man’s frustration worsened after his wife refused to cook for him, citing his inability to support the household. Three months earlier, he had openly threatened suicide but was cautioned by neighbours who advised him to seek reconciliation with his family.

The incident has thrown the community into mourning, with many expressing sadness not only over his death but also the impact it will have, as Odomma was their major source of water supply. Emeka, reacting to the tragedy, lamented that the deceased could have sought alternatives instead of taking his life, noting that everyone in the community was enduring hardship.

“Just see how this man ended his life because of money. He could have sold the GP tank or generator to get money and feed, but he chose to take his own life. Now the burden of his burial will fall on his kinsmen,” he said.

When contacted, Imo Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said he would confirm the incident with the Divisional Police Officer of Owerri West, but his phone line remained unreachable.