Tragedy Averted: Woman Allegedly Attempts Suicide by Consuming Rat Poison at Wurukum Market, Makurdi

 

In what could have turned into a tragic event, a woman—whose identity is yet to be confirmed—allegedly attempted to end her life by ingesting rat poison in Benue State. The shocking incident reportedly took place at the bustling Wurukum Market in Makurdi, the state capital, on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

The heartbreaking occurrence came to light after a Facebook user, Mary David Lubem, took to her page to share the disturbing incident. According to her post, the woman was seen in distress shortly after consuming the poison. Thankfully, a quick-thinking and compassionate bystander noticed what had happened and immediately rushed to assist her.

In what many are describing as a divine intervention, the good Samaritan did not waste any time. He ran off to get a bottle of palm oil and returned quickly to administer it to the woman. Palm oil is often used in many parts of Nigeria as a first-aid remedy to counteract poisoning—though not a guaranteed cure, it can sometimes help to reduce the immediate effects of toxic substances while professional help is sought.

Mary David Lubem wrote:

“Some moments ago at Wurukum Market, here in Makurdi Benue State, a woman consumed rat poi....son, a God sent saw her and ran and got a bottle of palm oil and forced her to take. Below is the woman's picture. Please let's take it easy with people around us and render help where necessary. People are going through a lot these days. May God meet us all at our points of needs.”

Her words reflect the growing concern many Nigerians have about mental health issues, especially in a time when economic hardship, emotional stress, and personal challenges are pushing more people to their limits.

The situation at Wurukum Market serves as a powerful reminder that behind every face we see in public, there might be untold struggles and battles going on in private. While the full details of the woman’s identity or reasons behind her alleged suicide attempt are still unknown, the outpouring of concern online shows that the community is not taking the issue lightly.

Social media users who came across Mary’s post have expressed sympathy and concern, with many emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support for people going through hard times. Some commenters thanked the man who acted so quickly, calling him a hero and a "God-sent" indeed.

This incident also highlights the importance of being observant and compassionate in public places. You never know when a kind word, a helping hand, or a simple act of intervention could save someone’s life.

As Nigerians, we must do better in looking out for one another. In these trying times, mental health must be taken seriously. Let us normalize checking up on our friends, family members, colleagues, and even strangers when we notice they’re not okay.

We also call on the government and health authorities in Benue State and across Nigeria to invest more in mental health education, crisis response, and support centers. Depression and emotional distress are real, and if left unaddressed, they can lead to tragedies like the one narrowly avoided in Wurukum.

To the woman involved, we hope she receives the medical attention and emotional support she needs. And to the good Samaritan, your act of kindness reminds us that humanity still exists.

May this serve as a wake-up call to us all: be kind, be observant, and never underestimate the power of stepping in when someone is in need.

NaijaRush will continue to follow this story and bring you updates as more details emerge.