Obudu market closed following suspected suicide and cleansing demands

A 56-year-old shoemaker, identified as Anthony Anthony, died in a suspected suicide at the Obudu Main Market Square in Cross River State on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Following the incident, the local community reportedly closed the market, citing the death as a taboo that requires traditional cleansing. Residents have allegedly demanded N300,000 from the deceased’s family to fund the cleansing ritual before the market is permitted to reopen.

The Cross River State Police Command has launched an investigation into the death. Police Public Relations Officer Sunday Eitokpah confirmed that officers have documented the scene and moved the body to a mortuary, noting that the exact circumstances and the possibility of foul play have yet to be established.