A heartbreaking case of neglect has emerged as the family of a mentally disturbed man, identified as James, refuses to take responsibility for his transportation back to his hometown in Gboko, Benue State.
CONFIRMNEWS gathered from a volunteer who reached out to James’ immediate younger brother, only to be met with a cold and dismissive response.
According to the volunteer, the brother blatantly stated that the family had the financial means to transport James home but had no intention of doing so.
Instead, he insisted that anyone willing to take on the responsibility would be compensated only upon delivering him to Gboko.
Further investigations revealed that James, who is not originally from Mbaduku, had been battling substance abuse, particularly hard drugs like Kolos, which reportedly contributed to his current mental state. Despite this, his family has chosen to distance themselves from his plight.
In a surprising turn, a close friend of James has taken it upon himself to secure the necessary funds to transport him home. While speaking with CONFIRMNEWS, the friend disclosed that he had managed to raise ₦15,000, donated by individuals who had previously employed James.
Disheartened by the family's apparent indifference, the volunteer who initially sought to assist James decided to withdraw support, citing the younger brother’s harsh remarks.
The brother allegedly remarked that “elders don’t require a goat for the burial of a madman,” implying that James’ condition did not warrant the family's effort or resources.
As the situation unfolds, James’ fate remains uncertain, with his friend struggling to gather the remaining funds needed for his journey home.