Tragedy struck in Lawa, Ogbaku community in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State on Sunday when a man identified simply as Reginald took his own life in the compound of a man alleged to be having an affair with his wife.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that Reginald had consistently warned a widower and his kinsman, Ukachukwu, to steer clear of his wife, but his warnings allegedly fell on deaf ears.
According to sources in the community, Reginald, who was deeply troubled by reports of the ongoing illicit relationship, was said to have reached his breaking point after hearing fresh allegations about the affair over the weekend. In an apparent act of despair and humiliation, he reportedly hanged himself on a tree within Ukachukwu’s compound.
“He has been warning his wife and his kinsman severally about their affair. The elders had also intervened many times, but nothing changed. On Sunday, he couldn’t take it anymore,” a resident told PLATFORM TIMES.
Sources said the situation had become a public scandal in the community, with elders reportedly expressing frustration over the failure of both parties to end the relationship, despite repeated warnings.
In line with local tradition regarding cases of suicide, Reginald’s body was reportedly buried immediately at the scene.
“It is considered a taboo to keep the body of someone who commits suicide. He was buried the same day,” another resident added.
Meanwhile, the deceased’s wife, said to be from Agwa in Oguta Local Government Area, has fled the community and her whereabouts remain unknown as at the time of filing this report.
Efforts to reach Ukachukwu or members of the family for comments were unsuccessful.
The Imo State Police Command is yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
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