Kano in shock as teen climbs billboard, threatens suicide over TikTok star

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh, Kano

A potential tragedy was averted in Kano on Monday after police officers swiftly intervened to rescue a 19-year-old man, Ibrahim Abubakar, who attempted to take his own life by jumping from a billboard at Ado Bayero Bridge.

Ibrahim, an indigene of Adamawa State, had climbed the structure and threatened to jump unless he was allowed to meet a popular TikTok personality known as Abdul BK.

Eyewitnesses alerted the authorities, prompting an immediate response from the Kano State Police Command.

In a statement issued by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Hussaini Abdullahi, officers in collaboration with the Fire Service team arrived promptly at the scene and initiated a delicate rescue operation.

Negotiators successfully persuaded the distraught youth to step down after Abdul BK was brought to the scene.

“Ibrahim was rescued unhurt, although he was visibly weak from going hours without food. He was rushed to the Police Hospital in Bompai for urgent medical care,” DSP Abdullahi stated.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, praised the swift and professional efforts of the emergency responders and security personnel.

He has also ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Police Command used the occasion to caution the public against resorting to such extreme actions, reminding citizens that attempted suicide is a criminal offence under Nigerian law.

The Command further encouraged individuals struggling with emotional or mental health issues to seek assistance from qualified professionals or appropriate agencies, reaffirming its commitment to protecting the lives and wellbeing of all residents in Kano State.