By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Residents of Elebele community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State were on Tuesday plunged into mourning following the death of a young man, identified simply as Israel, after what sources described as prolonged emotional distress.
The development cast a sombre mood over the usually peaceful riverine settlement as news of the tragedy spread, attracting youths, elders and sympathisers to the residence of the deceased.
Community sources disclosed that Israel had reportedly been battling emotional challenges linked to a strained relationship that eventually ended. Neighbours said he had become withdrawn in recent days, raising concerns among those close to him.
A resident, who spoke with PRIME GOSSIP, described the deceased as a calm and hardworking young man whose death came as a shock to the community.
“He was quiet and focused on his work. People noticed he had been keeping to himself lately, but nobody imagined it would lead to this. It is a very painful loss,” the source said.
Another community member noted that the incident had again highlighted the growing emotional and mental health challenges facing young people, especially in rural communities where access to counselling and professional support is limited.
According to the source, the absence of structured support systems often leaves individuals dealing with emotional distress alone, sometimes with tragic outcomes.
Family members of the deceased were said to be devastated as traditional rites were commenced in line with local customs, while the community continued to grieve.
Confirming the incident, the Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Muhammad, said preliminary investigations had begun to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the death.
He added that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Daniel Iyamah, had directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the area to visit the scene, after which the body was recovered and deposited in a mortuary.
DSP Muhammad said further details would be made available at the conclusion of investigations.