A 25-year-old man, Joseph Abodunrin, has died by suicide in the Dagbolu community of Osogbo Local Government Area, Osun State, reportedly due to the economic challenges affecting his mental health.
His cousin, Abodunrin Grace, confirmed his passing on Thursday through a post on her X account.
Describing Joseph as a supportive and encouraging figure in their family, she expressed deep sorrow over his loss.
“I still feel shattered. There are so many words, but I can’t process them. You were the best brother, always encouraging us. Yet, you suffered in silence, hiding your struggles behind smiles. We had no idea,” she wrote.
She continued, “He was my cousin, but more like an elder brother. No amount of lamenting can bring him back. The pressure is overwhelming! I’ve tried to stay strong. It’s nobody’s fault. But if anyone is struggling, please, please seek healing. We are all trying to survive, and it’s not easy.
“A quick note: With all the advancements in lifestyle, economy, culture, and the arts, staying mentally stable is the only way to keep moving forward. Prioritize your mental health.”
Prior to his death, Joseph had shared multiple tweets expressing his struggles and thoughts of ending his life, stating that his siblings were the only reason he held on.
On January 31, 2025, he tweeted, “If not for my siblings, I would have taken my life. Those kids are still full of optimism, hope, and dreams. I don’t want to take that away from them with the news of my death.”
On March 24, the day he took his life, he quoted this tweet and posted a series of messages:
“I’m sorry I let you all down. I just couldn’t do it anymore. No matter how I explain, you won’t understand.”
“I hope you all continue to fight, stay hopeful, never compromise on your dreams, and ultimately thrive. That is my final wish. In everything, I give glory to God. I ran my race and gave it my all. Now, I pass the baton.”
“My passwords are on the first page of my diary. Goodbye.”
Earlier, on March 9, he had questioned why he continued to fight for survival, stating, “I’ve asked myself over and over why I should keep going, and I haven’t found a meaningful answer. I don’t see a reason to stay here.”
He also wrote, “March is the decision month. None of what I’m going through is my fault. I didn’t choose to be born, nor did I choose my genetics or upbringing. I sought help, but it only made things worse. Through this process, I am practicing self-compassion, regardless of my final decision.”
Despite Joseph sharing the location where he ended his life, his body had not been found at the time of this report. Further investigation showed that the location he mentioned, ‘Dagbolu,’ was no longer accessible.
When contacted, Osun State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Akeem Adeoye, stated that he was unaware of the incident but would provide updates if any developments arose.
“I’m not aware of it. Perhaps the family wishes to keep it private. But I’ll inform you if there’s any update,” he said.
Joseph had celebrated his 25th birthday on February 6, 2025.
