The Bauchi State Police Command has issued a strong warning to the public, particularly young individuals, following a disturbing trend of residents climbing telecommunications masts in apparent attempts to draw attention to political or personal grievances.
In a press release issued Tuesday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, the police revealed that they have recorded three alarming incidents in June 2025 where individuals climbed telecom masts, with some reportedly threatening to commit suicide if their demands were not met.
The first incident occurred on June 16, involving 22-year-old Adamu Salisu, popularly known in his community as “Sarkin Malaman Samarin Muda Lawal Market.”
Salisu scaled a network mast near Kofar Dumi Primary School, refusing to come down until prominent political figure Alhaji Bala Wunti returned his call and announced his candidacy for the Bauchi State governorship.
Two days later, on June 18, 35-year-old Usman Nanu from the Kofar Dumi area of Bauchi climbed the same mast, stating that he would not descend unless the sitting governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir (CON), confirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The most recent case occurred on June 29 when 37-year-old Alkassim Saidu Yakubu from Unguwan Magaji Inkil area scaled an MTN mast in another part of the metropolis. While the specific motivation behind Yakubu’s actions remains unclear, authorities believe it to be linked to similar emotional or political frustrations.
“These acts are not only illegal but extremely dangerous,” SP Wakil emphasized. “The Command views such behaviour as a serious threat to life and public safety and will take necessary legal action to prevent recurrence.”
Wakil urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to be vigilant and speak to their children about the dangers of such conduct. He also called on telecom operators to reinforce the security of their infrastructure and ensure restricted access to masts.
Mental health advocates have also expressed concern over the increasing number of individuals using extreme methods to express discontent or gain attention, urging the government to invest more in community-based counselling and support systems.
“These actions highlight a need for mental health awareness and crisis intervention,” said Hauwa Isa, a clinical psychologist in Bauchi. “It’s crucial we provide outlets for emotional distress that do not endanger lives.”
As investigations continue, the Bauchi Police Command reiterates its commitment to protecting lives and property and warns that any further attempt to scale telecom masts will be met with strict legal consequences.
Authorities encourage anyone facing personal difficulties to seek help from professionals or community support systems rather than resorting to life-threatening actions.
