Kano: Man sets himself ablaze, claims he was headed to paradise

A tragic incident occurred on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, in the Diga area along Panshekara Road, Kano State, as a man identified as Suleiman Muntari set himself on fire in an apparent suicide attempt.

Eyewitnesses said Muntari, originally from Niger State, doused himself in petrol and ignited it, declaring his desire to “go to Paradise.”

“He said he wanted to go to Paradise. People thought it was a joke, but before anyone could react, he had already set himself ablaze,” said an eyewitness, Saminu Isah.

The shocking act left bystanders horrified. According to reports from the Nigerian Tribune, several residents speculated that Muntari may have been under the influence of drugs, as he appeared disoriented and was shouting incoherently before the incident.

“He wasn’t in his right senses. You could smell something strong on him. He was staggering and shouting strange things,” recalled Aisha Salisu, a resident.

Despite efforts from bystanders who attempted to rescue him, including dragging him into a nearby water-filled drainage, the flames had already inflicted devastating injuries.

“It was like a horror movie,” said tricycle rider Ibrahim Jafar. “Some young men tried to save him, but his skin was already peeling. It was too late.”

As of the time of filing this report, the Kano State Police Command had not issued an official statement regarding the incident.

The event has left the community in shock, with many calling for increased mental health awareness and drug abuse prevention campaigns.