A 27-year-old man, Mohammed Bello, attempted to take his own life by climbing an MTN telecommunications mast in Gombe Local Government Area, citing overwhelming debt as the reason for his actions.
According to the Gombe State Police Command, officers were alerted through a distress call and swiftly arrived at the scene on Maimala Buni Street, where Bello had refused to descend.
During negotiations, Bello revealed that he was being pursued by security agencies over unpaid debts owed to two creditors. He stated that rather than face the consequences, he preferred to end his life.
Efforts to de-escalate the situation led to the intervention of a respected community leader, Katukan Gombe, who reassured Bello that his financial issues could be resolved.
Convinced by the promise of assistance, Bello eventually climbed down from the mast.
He was taken into police custody, where he provided a statement regarding his ordeal.
Authorities commended the quick response of officers and the role of community leaders in preventing a tragedy.
The Gombe State Police Command urged individuals facing financial difficulties to seek help through appropriate channels rather than resorting to self-harm, emphasizing that support is available for those in distress.
