Tragedy has struck in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, where a young woman allegedly took her own life after being forced by her father to marry one of his friends.
The heartbreaking incident was made public by renowned counter-insurgency and security analyst Zagazola Makama, who shared details of the case on Monday.
According to Makama, the victim — whose identity has not yet been officially disclosed — ended her life shortly after her family concluded arrangements for the forced marriage.
“Tragedy struck in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State on Sunday evening when a young woman reportedly took her own life after being forced by her father to marry one of his friends,” Makama stated.
Citing local sources, Makama explained that the incident occurred around 6:20 p.m. on Sunday, when the young woman, said to have been in deep emotional distress, succumbed to pressure from her family to proceed with the marriage.
A local child protection volunteer, Bukar Fantami Gubio, also confirmed the incident, describing it as deeply tragic and unacceptable.
He revealed that the deceased had repeatedly expressed her unwillingness to marry the man chosen by her father, insisting she was already in love with someone else of her own choice.
“The emotional pain and pressure she endured as a result of this forced marriage pushed her into taking her own life. It is truly a sad situation that calls for urgent attention,” Gubio said.
He called on human rights organisations, law enforcement agencies, and relevant authorities to investigate the case thoroughly and ensure justice is served to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Gubio further appealed to parents and community leaders to respect the rights and choices of young women in marriage decisions, stressing that forced marriages remain a serious violation of human rights.
“This tragedy is a painful reminder of the urgent need to protect the rights, freedom, and dignity of young women against all forms of coercion and abuse,” he added.
