Man who climbed pole demanding Tinubu's resignation taken to psych hospital

After being persuaded to come down from the electric pole, the man was immediately taken to a psychiatric hospital in Yola, Adamawa State Capital, for mental evaluation.

A 30-year-old man identified as Abdullahi Mohammed has been placed under medical observation at the Yola Psychiatric Hospital after a dramatic incident last Friday in which he climbed a 33kV high-tension power pole in Mayo-Belwa, demanding the resignation of President Bola Tinubu.

The Adamawa State Police Command confirmed that Mohammed was found with illegal substances, including green leaves he identified as Indian hemp.

According to the police, his erratic behaviour during the standoff raised concerns about his mental health.

“We discovered drugs on him, and he admitted to regular use of Indian hemp and other substances,” said Adamawa Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Suleiman Nguroje. “His actions were unusual, so he was taken to the psychiatric hospital for a thorough evaluation. We’re awaiting the results of his medical examination before determining further steps.”

The incident reportedly happened when the man, a resident of Gashaka in neighbouring Taraba State, climbed the electricity pole along the Yola-Jalingo highway, declaring that he would not descend until the President resigned from office.

Residents and police negotiators worked tirelessly through the weekend to persuade him to come down. Mohammed was later safely brought down, and police took him into custody. Nguroje characterised Mohammed's actions as suicidal, noting that such behaviour is a criminal offence in Nigeria.

“Attempting suicide is punishable under Nigerian law, and we are preparing to take him to court,” the police spokesperson explained. “Our responsibility is to protect lives, and anyone endangering themselves or others will face legal consequences.”

This incident has raised concerns about mental health issues and drug abuse, as well as the role of law enforcement in dealing with individuals in crisis. Mohammed’s case is still under investigation, and the Nigeria Police is awaiting further medical assessments before moving forward with any charges.

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