Suîcide Attempt Foiled as 25-Year-Old R€scued from River Niger

Suîcide Attempt Foiled as 25-Year-Old Rescued from River Niger

A major tragedy was averted in Onitsha, Anambra State, at the weekend after a 25-year-old man, Henry Okoroagwu, jumped into the River Niger.

Okoroagwu, an indigene of Amasiri in Afikpo, Ebonyi State, reportedly climbed the railings of the Niger Bridge in broad daylight and plunged into the river out of frustration.

He was swiftly rescued by local boat operators and officials of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) following an alarm raised by passersby.

Confirming the incident, NIWA’s Unit Head of Marine, Engineer Omishola, said the agency’s rapid intervention was crucial to saving the victim.

A boat operator, Mr. Peter Okenye, who took part in the rescue, recalled: “By the time we reached him, he was already going under. It was by God’s grace that we pulled him out alive.”

After regaining consciousness, Okoroagwu admitted that depression and frustration had driven him to attempt suicide. He revealed that he is the sixth child in his family and has been battling overwhelming personal struggles.

The young man was later handed over to NIWA’s Police Command for further care and evaluation.

The incident has since sparked emotional reactions on social media, with many calling for more attention to mental health challenges. Residents of Onitsha also praised NIWA officials and boat operators for their swift response, noting that their action prevented what could have been another dark day at the River Niger.