By 9jaeye 
A 59-year-old man identified as Yemi, a resident of Ilasa, Lagos, narrowly escaped a tragic fate after attempting to take his own life by jumping into the lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge. The incident occurred at approximately 12:00 PM on Friday when Rapid Response Squad (RRS) bike riders, who were on routine patrol, intervened just in time to prevent the jump.
Yemi explained to the officers that he had been weighed down by the challenges he’s facing, which are compounded by the current state of the country. He shared that his struggles had become unbearable, leading him to contemplate ending his life by leaping into the lagoon.
Thanks to the swift response of the RRS bike patrol, the suicide attempt was averted. The officers, who were stationed on the Third Mainland Bridge during their regular patrol, acted quickly upon spotting Yemi at the edge of the bridge. They successfully restrained him before he could make the fatal leap.
The incident highlights the increasing pressure many Nigerians are feeling due to the economic and social challenges currently facing the country. Yemi’s story is one of many that underscore the need for increased attention to mental health support in Nigeria.
In his statement to the RRS officers, Yemi cited his frustration with the difficult circumstances in the country as the primary reason for his drastic decision. While no further details were given about his specific struggles, it is clear that the ongoing economic downturn, unemployment, and other personal issues have had a deep impact on him.
This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and providing adequate support for those who may feel burdened by life’s challenges. As more people face economic hardship, organizations and the government must prioritize mental health resources to help individuals like Yemi who may feel like they have no other options.
Credit to the source of the image used.
By Ayo of the 9jaeye News Media