A 28-year-old man sparked fear and drew a large crowd after climbing a high-tension power pole, threatening to take his own life.
Eyewitnesses said some residents blamed mystical forces, locally known as ‘colos,’ for the disturbing incident.
People around the scene tried to persuade the man to come down, capturing the tense moments on video. “He wasn’t acting like himself. Many believe the ‘colos’ were behind this,” one resident said in a video seen by AFRIPOST.
The incident occurred yesterday evening in Awada, Idemili North Local Government Area, behind Grace of God Mission, off NEPA Road.
Police operatives from the Anambra State Command quickly arrived and cordoned off the area to ensure public safety.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the command’s spokesperson, said, “After several minutes of negotiation by officers and concerned community members, the man safely descended from the power pole and was taken into protective custody.”
The victim, identified as Okwudili David Onyiba, is now under evaluation. Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered a full medical and mental health assessment to determine his well-being.
Police also urged residents to seek peaceful and lawful ways to resolve personal problems.
“Always reach out to family, friends, or support groups during times of distress,” the statement read.
Watch the video HERE.