Pandemonium struck the Panshekara community of Kano State after a young man, identified as Suleiman Muntari, shocked residents by setting himself ablaze in broad daylight, claiming he was heading to paradise.
The tragic incident, which occurred along a busy road in the area, left residents in deep shock and mourning. Eyewitnesses said the man had earlier exhibited strange behaviour before the act, indicating signs of emotional and mental distress.
According to reports, Muntari was seen wandering the streets aimlessly, muttering incomprehensible words before he suddenly doused himself in petrol and struck a match.
“He said he wanted to go to Paradise. People thought he was just frustrated or joking. Nobody believed he would actually do it,” recounted Saminu Isah, one of the stunned witnesses.
Efforts by passersby to stop him proved futile, as the flames consumed his body rapidly before help could arrive.
Another eyewitness, Aisha Salisu, a resident of the area, said the deceased’s actions were clearly abnormal, suggesting he may have been under the influence of a substance.
“It was obvious something was wrong. From the way he was walking and talking, it didn’t seem like he was in his right senses. There was a strong odour coming from him and he kept shouting incoherently,” she said.
Although no official statement had been issued by the Kano State Police Command as of press time, the bizarre incident has triggered public concern over the rising cases of mental health issues and substance abuse among Nigerian youths.
Many community members and social commentators have begun calling for urgent government intervention and awareness campaigns to address the growing mental health crisis, especially in urban and suburban communities across the country.
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