Outrage As Woman ‘Commits Suicide’ Over Forced Marriage In Borno

The Borno State Police Command has begun investigation into a viral publication circulating on various social media platforms of a young woman who allegedly took her own life due to forced marriage in Gubio local government area of the State.

The woman was alleged to have taken her own life after the father forced her to marry one of his friends.

In a statement to journalists on Monday in Maiduguri, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, said the Command wished to inform the general public that the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, has ordered a discreet investigation into the authenticity and circumstances surrounding the said viral report.

Daso said the Command was committed to establishing the true facts of the matter and, therefore, called on individuals with credible and verifiable information to come forward and assist the Police in the ongoing investigation.

He said, “The attention of the Command has been drawn to a viral publication circulating on various social media platforms, alleging that a young woman in Gubio local government area took her own life after being forced by her father to marry one of his friends.

“The Command wishes to inform the general public that the Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, psc, has ordered a discreet investigation into the authenticity and circumstances surrounding the said report.

“The Command is committed to establishing the true facts of the matter and therefore calls on individuals with credible and verifiable information to come forward and assist the Police in the ongoing investigation.”

He further advised members of the public to exercise caution and restraint in sharing unverified information, especially on sensitive matters that may cause panic, emotional distress, or misrepresentation of facts.

The PPRO said while the Command remained dedicated to protecting the rights, safety, and dignity of all citizens, it also warned that spreading false or misleading information is punishable under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.

“The Borno State Police Command assures residents of its unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order, promoting accountability, and ensuring that justice and truth prevail,” the statement added.

However, local child protection volunteer Bukar Fantami Gubio has urged human rights organisations, law enforcement agencies, and relevant authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that justice was served.

Gubio emphasised the need to protect young women’s rights, freedom, and dignity against all forms of abuse and coercion, highlighting that forced marriages are a significant violation of human rights.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage in the State, with community members and activists calling for urgent action to prevent similar cases.