Anambra police probe student suicide after a 25-year-old was found dead in Onitsha, with authorities investigating suspected circumstances and note discovery

The Anambra State Police Command has launched a formal investigation into the death of a 25-year-old female student whose body was discovered in Onitsha on June 18 under circumstances pointing to a suspected suicide, a development that has triggered public concern and renewed debate on youth mental health support systems.

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The Anambra Police Probe Student Suicide case was confirmed in a statement issued by the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, who disclosed that a handwritten note believed to have been left by the deceased was recovered at the scene during preliminary investigations.

The identity of the deceased has been withheld by authorities as investigations continue. However, police reports indicated that the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the body suggest a possible self-inflicted death.

A video circulating on social media showed residents and passersby gathered at the scene shortly after the incident, drawing widespread attention and emotional reactions from members of the public.

CP Ikioye Orutugu expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as part of a troubling pattern of social and moral challenges affecting young people.

“The Anambra State Command has expressed deep concern over the increasing level of moral decadence and other disturbing incidents being recorded in society,” Orutugu said.

He added that the situation reflects a broader societal responsibility that extends beyond law enforcement alone.

“The increasing trend has become worrisome and a collective challenge requiring urgent attention from families, communities, religious institutions and relevant stakeholders,” he stated.

According to the commissioner, preliminary findings suggest the deceased may have left behind a note containing personal and emotional details.

The note reportedly referenced a relationship breakdown and alleged personal struggles involving a man identified as Chigozie, alongside claims of past abortions.

“The note suspected to be a suicide message contained a disturbing narrative of relationship break-up after having three abortions for an unidentified man named Chigozie,” Orutugu said.

While stressing that investigations remain ongoing, the police chief emphasised the importance of emotional support systems and stronger parental guidance for young people navigating complex social pressures.

“The development underscores the need for stronger parental guidance, moral upbringing, and emotional support systems for young people,” he added.

He further urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the mental and emotional wellbeing of their children, highlighting communication as a critical preventive tool.

“Many societal challenges can be mitigated through effective parenting, open communication, and the inculcation of sound moral values,” Orutugu noted.

The commissioner also called on schools, religious organisations, community leaders and civil society groups to intensify mentorship and advocacy programmes aimed at promoting resilience and responsible living among youths.

Police authorities confirmed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for a more detailed and discreet investigation.

Meanwhile, the command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and addressing emerging social issues affecting public safety, as the Anambra Police Probe Student Suicide case continues to unfold.

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The incident has reignited conversations around mental health awareness in Nigeria, particularly among young adults facing academic, emotional and relationship pressures, with stakeholders calling for improved access to counselling and support services.