Headteacher Sets Himself Ablaze Over Unknown Cause

Police in Vihiga County is investigating a case in which a secondary school teacher committed suicide on Sunday by setting himself ablaze in his house in a suspected case of depression.

County Police Commander Hassan Barua said Mr Daniel Ingoro, a Biology and Geography teacher at Hobunaka Secondary School, was due for retirement in six months.

Mr Barua said the victim was seen buying petrol from a nearby petrol station. He is said to have locked himself in his house and set it ablaze on Sunday evening.

Mr Barua said the teacher divorced his wife 40 years ago and never remarried.

Hobunaka Secondary School headteacher William Sunguti said the school is in shock.

He said Mr Ingoro, who was due to retire in February next year, prayed for the school after a staff meeting on Friday.

“After the prayer closing a staff meeting, he prayed and left for home. He did not show any signs of depression,” said Mr Sunguti.

He described the teacher as a reserved man who shared his issues with only a few people.

Vihiga branch Kuppet Executive Secretary Nebert Isabel said: “It is unfortunate we have lost our member, there are speculations that he took his life, we urge teachers to share the challenges they are facing.”

The Puppet official described Mr Ingoro, who recently lost his mother, as a quiet man who was perfect at his job.