A Port Harcourt resident, identified as Onoh Chukwuma Richard, tragically ended his life on Tuesday by consuming a poisonous substance, Sniper, due to overwhelming unpaid debts. Medical professionals at Madonna Hospital Umuahia confirmed his demise.
Before the incident, Richard posted a farewell message on his Facebook page, stating, “Today is my last day on earth! I am going to meet my maker. Thank you Chima Anyaso, Ikukuoma Abia, Kelvin Jombo Onumah, Ekwueme Ohafia, and my friends. My spirit is with you all.”
In a separate conversation with a friend, he revealed his struggles, saying, “The only option is to end my life as I cannot live with the shame. His Excellency Sir, please come to my rescue. I have turned into a gambler due to unemployment, and now, if I don’t settle my debt today, I might take my own life. I used 2,500,000 to place a bet, and 1.2 million is not mine. If I don’t pay up today, I will be dead by the time you read this message. As I type this, I am where I want to buy Sniper.”
Reacting to Richard’s actions, Maduakolam Chukwu expressed sorrow, saying, “You took your own life, Onoh Chukwuma Richard, out of depression? Like I said, create your happiness; nothing is worth more than your happiness.”
Promise Udeh emphasized the gravity of Richard’s decision, stating, “No circumstance on earth is worth taking Sniper to end your life. You’ve thrown your old Mom into unimaginable pain, devastated your loved ones, and broken the hearts of your circle.”
Ibeako Esther Chisom, who witnessed the tragic event, shared her heartbreak, revealing that the deceased was depressed due to unpaid debts, leading to this unfortunate act. She expressed her sadness at witnessing the doctors’ efforts to revive him, all in vain.
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the severe consequences of financial struggles on mental health and emphasizes the importance of seeking help during difficult times.
