Tragedy unfolded in Ikorodu, Lagos State, as Amarachi Ugochukwu, a 32-year-old employee of a local bank, took her own life amidst challenging economic circumstances. The shocking incident, reported by The Punch on January 11, deeply affected her colleagues.
The distressing act occurred on January 8 within the confines of the bank where Ugochukwu was employed. Prior to taking her life, she left a poignant note, revealing her reasons for the tragic decision. In the note, she lamented the overwhelming challenges posed by the harsh economic conditions, expressing a profound sense of hopelessness: “Nothing is working in my life. My figures are low. My brain is clogged up. The economy is getting harder. My decisions are wrong. My mind is messed up. The future doesn’t seem bright at all. I see extreme hardship. I can’t bear the pain anymore.”
Ugochukwu also extended apologies to her family members, addressing her parents, siblings, and others: “I’m sorry Mum, I’m sorry Dad, I’m sorry Nene, Okwe, Toto, Nazor, Chuchu, Ifunanya.” Alongside these heartfelt apologies, she sought mercy from God in the face of her overwhelming despair.
The incident sheds light on the broader issue of mental health challenges and the impact of economic hardships on individuals. The International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) highlights Nigeria’s high suicide rates in Africa, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting 9.5 suicides for every 100,000 people in the country. As the nation grapples with these alarming statistics, it becomes imperative to address the underlying economic issues and provide support systems to mitigate the impact on individuals’ mental well-being.
