A middle-aged man, Tartor Ayihe, has reportedly taken his own life after allegedly selling a plot of land to three different buyers in Ayihe village, Makurdi Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.
According to reports, the deceased consumed a poisonous substance, believed to be a pesticide known as Sniper, after being confronted about the fraudulent transactions.
A community source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the incident unfolded on Wednesday evening, after Ayihe was summoned by community leaders to explain how he managed to sell the same plot of family land to three separate buyers.
“After it was discovered that he sold a piece of family land to three different buyers, the matter was reported to the Kindred Head by those he deceived,” the source said.
During the meeting with the Kindred Head and the affected buyers, Ayihe excused himself under the pretense of retrieving something from his residence. Instead, he reportedly purchased the pesticide and consumed it after switching off his phone.
“After waiting for about an hour, people were sent to bring him back to the venue.
“When they got to his home, he was found motionless, with empty bottles of the poisonous chemical around him.
“He was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.” The source stated further.
The Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident and stated that police operatives have been dispatched to investigate further.