A 19-year-old man with mental health challenges has killed a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officer in Ondo State, highlighting ongoing concerns over mental health and public safety.
The incident occurred on Thursday, November 20, 2025, in the Oke Ala community of Akure North Local Government Area. Babalola Joseph Idowu, the NSCDC officer, was attempting to restrain the young man, who had reportedly been a source of disturbances in the community for several years. The suspect’s mother had contacted the NSCDC to intervene and ensure he received proper psychiatric care.
Eyewitnesses said that while two officers were escorting the youth to a mental health facility, he suddenly became violent. He overpowered one of the officers, grabbed his knife, and stabbed him multiple times before fleeing the scene.
The injured officer was immediately taken to a hospital but later succumbed to his wounds. Witnesses described the attack as shocking, noting that the officer was armed but still unable to prevent the assault.
Daniel Aidamenbor, NSCDC’s Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, confirmed the attack and said the officers’ intervention was intended to protect both the community and the suspect. He added that the young man’s sudden aggression led to the tragic loss of life.