A prompt intervention by a commercial motorcyclist, popularly known as Okada rider, averted a tragic incident on Wednesday as he saved a Nigerian Correctional Service officer from taking his own life by jumping into the Gusau Dam in Zamfara State.
The officer, identified as Abdullahi Nura, a Chief Correctional Assistant (CCA) attached to the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Gusau, reportedly left home under the guise of heading to work but diverted his route to the dam — one of the deepest water bodies in the state capital.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Zamfara State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, ASC I Mustapha Abubakar, Nura had engaged the services of a commercial motorcyclist to convey him to the dam.
However, on getting to the location, the officer, without uttering a word, suddenly leapt into the water in an apparent attempt to end his life.
Startled by the unexpected action, the Okada rider raised the alarm, drawing the attention of nearby security operatives and passersby.
His quick response led to a coordinated rescue effort, and Nura was successfully pulled out of the water alive.
“He was still dressed in his uniform, and his official identity card was found securely tucked against his chest,” the statement revealed.
The headquarters of the Nigerian Correctional Service in the state was immediately notified, prompting the Controller of Corrections, CCS Musa Tanko, to dispatch a rescue team to the scene.
The officer was thereafter rushed to the MSCC medical clinic in Gusau, where he is currently receiving medical care.
Officials of the Service confirmed that he has regained consciousness and is now in stable condition.
While the motive behind the attempted suicide remains unknown, the Correctional Service assured that it is closely monitoring his recovery process and providing him with the necessary psychosocial support.
Efforts are also ongoing to ascertain the reasons behind the officer’s action, as authorities continue to emphasise the importance of mental health awareness and support within the service.
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