The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) prevented Shuaibu Yusha’u from attempting suicide in Abuja on Monday.
Yusha’u, 24, climbed a 120-meter mast at Katampe hill, within the premises of Aso Radio and Television Services, along Murtala Mohammed Expressway, and threatened to jump.
The young man from Baga Local Government Area of Borno State stated in his note that his action was a protest against the Federal Government’s removal of the fuel subsidy. He claimed this policy had caused severe economic hardship, especially for the poor and vulnerable.
Yusha’u also urged the government to declare a state of emergency in Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Niger, Kaduna, and Borno States due to escalating terrorist attacks and insecurity. Additionally, he called for the reopening of national borders to allow food imports and address the issue of out-of-school children.
Acting Director-General of FEMD, Mrs. Florence Wenegieme, responded to a distress call about the incident and convinced Yusha’u to abandon his plan after an hour of counseling.
Wenegieme advised citizens against using such drastic measures to draw government attention, emphasizing there are better ways to communicate concerns to authorities.
She stated, “Citizens can also approach social workers at FEMD, Social Development Secretariat (SDS) of the FCT Administration, hospitals, and other health centers for counseling.”
Wenegieme highlighted that the federal government is working to address insecurity and food security issues. She reassured that President Bola Tinubu is implementing measures to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal through palliatives and other incentives.
“I encourage individuals not to take their lives but to contribute to finding workable solutions to Nigeria’s problems,” she added.
The acting director-general promised to request counseling services for Yusha’u, who is currently in the custody of the FCT Police Command. She also called for aggressive awareness campaigns by the National Orientation Agency, religious organizations, and relevant agencies to promote positive outlooks on life and discourage suicide.
Wenegieme emphasized the need for desk officers at strategic locations where citizens can discuss their problems and solutions.
Pathwaynews reports that other agencies present included the FCT Fire Service, National Emergency Management Agency, Social Development Secretariat, FCTA, Department of Reform Coordination, and Nigeria Police.
