Tragedy has struck Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, where a young woman reportedly took her own life after being compelled by her father to marry one of his friends.
According to intelligence Sources quoted by security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, on Monday, the incident occurred on Sunday night, when the woman—said to have been battling emotional distress—succumbed to pressure from her family to proceed with the forced marriage.
A local child protection volunteer, Bukar Fantami, who confirmed the incident, described it as “deeply unfortunate and heartbreaking,” calling for urgent action to address the recurring issue of forced marriages in the region.
“The emotional pain and pressure she went through as a result of this forced marriage pushed her into taking her own life. It is truly a sad situation that calls for urgent action,” Fantami said.
He revealed that the deceased had repeatedly expressed her unwillingness to marry the man chosen by her father, stating that she was in love with someone else.
Fantami urged human rights organisations, law enforcement agencies, and government authorities to investigate the matter and ensure justice is served.
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He also appealed to parents and traditional leaders to respect the rights and choices of young women in marital decisions.
“This tragedy is a reminder of the urgent need to protect the rights, freedom, and dignity of young women against all forms of abuse and coercion,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, both the Borno State Government and the Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.