Tragedy struck in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State as a 34-year-old graduate, Bryant Michael Ogah, reportedly ended his life shortly after completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program. Bryant was found in a hotel room where he had consumed a suspected poisonous substance.
Sources revealed that Bryant had battled mental health challenges for over a decade. Despite successfully completing his NYSC program, his struggles overwhelmed him.
Speaking on the incident, his mother, Mrs. Ogah, expressed her grief and shared insights into his challenges. She disclosed that Bryant, her first child, had always aspired to support the family but was held back by his unstable mental health.
“He struggled for years with his condition, and I believe he was tired of the situation,” Mrs. Ogah said. “He felt he couldn’t help himself or the family, and that weighed heavily on him. Despite this, we always assured him that his presence alone brought us joy, and we supported him as best we could.”
On December 23, 2024, Bryant informed his family he was visiting a friend in another community, a statement that turned out to be a pretext for his tragic decision. Instead of heading to his friend’s house, he checked into a hotel in the Television area of Kaduna South.
“He said he needed a change of environment. We allowed him to go, not knowing it was part of his plan to end his life,” Mrs. Ogah narrated.
The hotel staff discovered him unresponsive the following day after he failed to check out. Although he was rushed to the hospital, he died shortly after admission.
Mrs. Ogah attributed his actions to the stigma and frustration he faced due to his mental health condition. She described his unfulfilled desire to improve the family’s fortunes as a source of pain for him.
When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Kaduna State Police Command, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are ongoing.
