Osun Community in Shock as 25-Year-Old Ends Life Over Economic Hardship

 

The community of Dagbolu in Osogbo Local Government Area of Osun State has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of a 25-year-old man, Joseph Abodunrin. Reports indicate that Joseph took his own life, allegedly due to the overwhelming financial struggles and mental distress caused by the harsh economic realities in the country.

His untimely demise was confirmed on Thursday by a family member, Abodunrin Grace, who expressed deep sorrow over the incident via her social media handle. She described Joseph as a beacon of encouragement to others, even while silently battling his own struggles.

“I still feel shattered, many words but unprocessed. You were the best brother. You encouraged us all, but you went to voice out in a space we couldn’t think of. You hid it all from us. You went about with fake laughter and smiles. Now we can’t get over it,” she wrote.

Hidden Pain Behind a Smiling Face

Joseph’s death has sparked widespread discussion about mental health, especially among young Nigerians struggling with economic hardship. He had previously hinted at his internal battles through a series of social media posts, some of which were filled with despair and an apparent cry for help.

On January 31, 2025, he posted a haunting message:

"If not for my siblings, I would not commit su!cide. Those younglings are still full of optimism, hope, and dreams that I don’t want to squash with the news of my death."

This post revealed his deep emotional turmoil, suggesting that his younger siblings were the only reason he had held on for so long.

However, on March 24, 2025, the day he took his life, Joseph made a final series of tweets in which he apologized to his loved ones, saying he could no longer continue fighting.

"I’m sorry I failed you guys, I couldn’t just do it anymore… No matter how I explain it, you won’t understand!!!"

He then left behind a final message of encouragement for those still struggling.

"I hope y’all find it in you to keep fighting, hopeful, never negotiating your dreams, and to finally and eventually thrive. That is my last wish. In everything, I give glory to God. I ran my race, and I gave it everything I had. Finally passing on the baton."

His last words also contained a chilling detail—he had left his passwords on the first page of his diary, possibly for his family to access his digital accounts after his passing.

A Cry for Help That Went Unheard

Joseph had previously expressed feelings of hopelessness, questioning why he continued to fight to stay alive. In a tweet on March 9, he wrote:

"I have asked myself several times why I should fight and keep fighting to stay alive, and I have not gotten any meaningful answer ever since. I really don’t see any reason to continue here."

Further revealing his struggles, he hinted that he had sought help but found that it only worsened his condition.

"None of what I am experiencing and feeling is my fault… I didn’t create myself, no power over the gene I inherited or the parents I was born through… I have tried to seek help, but it absolutely made it worse…"

Authorities Unaware, Body Yet to Be Recovered

Despite Joseph sharing the location of his final moments—Dagbolu—his body has not yet been recovered as of the time of filing this report. Attempts to verify his whereabouts have been met with uncertainty, as the location he tagged is no longer active.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, ASP Akeem Adeoye, stated that he was not aware of the incident but promised to provide updates if any new information emerged.

"I am not aware of it. Maybe the family does not want it out. But I will let you know about any development," he said.

A Call for Mental Health Awareness

Joseph’s tragic passing has reignited conversations about the importance of mental health, particularly among young Nigerians navigating financial difficulties and societal pressures. His family and friends are now left to mourn a promising young man whose pain remained hidden behind a facade of smiles and encouragement.

As the nation grapples with rising costs of living and economic instability, mental health advocates stress the need for increased awareness, access to mental health resources, and support systems to help those who may be silently struggling.

Joseph had just celebrated his 25th birthday on February 6, 2025. Now, his loved ones are left to reflect on his life and the signs that may have been missed.