A tragic incident has shaken the Nigerian Police Force as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shafi’u Usman Bawa, with service number AP/No 337979, was confirmed to have taken his own life in Kontagora, Niger State.
According to an official police signal obtained by Sahara Reporters, the distressing event occurred on Saturday when the officer was found hanging from the ceiling in his residence.
The heartbreaking discovery was brought to light by the deceased officer’s father, Mr. Usman Bawa, a resident of the Rigasa area in Kontagora. Upon finding his son’s lifeless body, he promptly reported the incident to the police authorities.
Following the report, officers moved the deceased to the General Hospital in Kontagora, where a medical doctor officially confirmed his passing. The body was subsequently released to his family for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
The tragic suicide has left many questioning the circumstances surrounding ASP Bawa’s death. While the police have yet to disclose any potential motives, an official investigation has been launched to determine the events leading up to his demise.
A police wireless message regarding the incident read:
“Good afternoon sir, SITREP: Suicide. Today, being Saturday, 08/02/25, at about 1410hrs, one Mr. Usman Bawa, male, of Rigasa area in Kontagora, reported at the squadron base that his son, AP/No 337979 ASP Shafi’u Usman Bawa, committed suicide by hanging himself from the ceiling. The lifeless body was moved to the General Hospital, Kontagora, where a medical doctor confirmed him dead. The corpse was released to the family for burial according to Islamic rites. Further developments will be communicated. Yours, CO 61 PMF Kontagora.”
This tragedy highlights growing concerns about the mental well-being of security personnel in Nigeria. The pressures and challenges of policing often take a toll on officers, yet mental health remains an overlooked issue within the force.
As investigations continue, questions linger over whether ASP Bawa showed any prior signs of distress and whether support structures were in place to assist him. His death adds to the growing conversation about the need for psychological support and counseling services within Nigeria’s security agencies.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates on the case as investigations unfold.
PIONEER NEWS 