Man commits suicide over gambling debt in Abuja

A young man identified as Stephen Chidubem has died by suicide in the Saburi 2 area of Abuja, allegedly due to financial distress linked to gambling.

The incident occurred at Chidubem’s residence on Abba Street, behind the Anglican Church, where he was found hanging from a ceiling fan. Emergency responders were called to the scene and rushed him to Kubwa General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead and later moved to the morgue for autopsy.

A suicide note discovered at the scene revealed Chidubem’s struggle with a gambling addiction and his overwhelming debt. In the note, he apologized to those affected by his financial woes and named individuals to whom he owed money.

Part of the note read: “Sorry to everyone who cared, I can’t continue putting people in trouble because of my gambling addiction. Please forgive me Elvis, Paul, and all I’m owing. And you, Bishop Andy Ero, give the balance of ₦507,500 to Elvis or Paul.”

Sources close to the victim said he had been battling a deepening addiction that led to emotional turmoil and mounting debt.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, while mental health advocates continue to call for stronger support systems for individuals struggling with addiction.