A senior non-commissioned officer serving at the 14 Brigade Headquarters, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s Barrack in Ohafia, Abia State, has tragically taken his own life.
The soldier, identified as Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Vitalis, from Okpuala in Ngor-Okpuala, Imo State, was attached to the 144 Battalion’s Forward Operation Base (FOB) at Ngwa High School in Abayi, Osisioma Local Government Area.
CSM Vitalis shot himself in front of the FOB gate, leaving his colleagues and military authorities in shock. The reasons behind his decision to commit suicide are currently unknown, as no suicide note was found.
Sources within the security forces in the state revealed that only a thorough investigation would uncover the reasons for his actions. They cautioned against premature speculation that could prejudice the investigation’s outcome.
Before his death, there were no reported issues of domestic violence or work-related disciplinary actions against him by the authorities at the Battalion or the 14 Brigade Headquarters.
However, it was noted that CSM Vitalis had been missing for two weeks, during which attempts by his colleagues and military authorities to contact him were unsuccessful.
His sudden reappearance and subsequent suicide have left many questions unanswered.
However, he was nearing retirement in October, adding to the mystery and shock among his peers regarding his tragic decision.
Why is it that all soldiers who commit suicide are igbos? What is going on in the system?