A young man simply identified as Benjamin, has committed suicide in Iyowa community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State. The deceased was discovered dangling on a rope in an uncompleted building on Tuesday, October 19.
It was gathered that Benjamin took his own life after it was alleged that he was having an incestuous relationship with his 16-year-old niece.
The incident threw the rustic community into confusion as many residents wondered if the rumour of his alleged incestuous relationship with his niece, who he lived with in a relation’s house, could have led him to take the option of death by hanging close to the house.
According to reports, “Benjamin and a cousin, Ejiro, have for some years been living with a relative of theirs in the community. Recently there was suspicion that the duo was in an incestuous relationship. Soon the affair became public knowledge and tongues started wagging. Benjamin recoiled to himself and became completely withdrawn, almost turning to a recluse.”
“Benjamin, probably in his desire to avoid public condemnation and shame, took the decision to end it all by taking his own life.”
Commenting on what could have driven the young man to take such drastic stepfather of the deceased said that he was informed three days ago that his son had been having carnal of his niece.
The accusation was said to have led to a quarrel between Bengamin’s mother and the mother of the girl.
“He slept with his senior brother’s daughter. Born of the same mother with him, not the same father,” he said.
Spokesman of the Edo State Police Command, Bello Kontongs, who confirmed the incident, said that the family had demanded that they be allowed to bury the corpse.
Linda Ikeji
