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Tragic Explosion in Abakpa Claims Lives of Two Children, Women Bear Emotional Toll

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By Prosper Mene 

A devastating explosion shook the Abakpa community in Kaduna North Local Government Area on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, claiming the lives of two young children, Imam, 13, and Nasrin, 6, and leaving three others injured. The blast, which occurred along Josawa Road, has plunged the community into grief, with women—mothers, sisters, and caregivers—bearing the weight of profound emotional and social burdens in its aftermath.

The Kaduna State Police Command has clarified that the incident was not caused by a bomb, as initially feared, but by the accidental discharge of a locally made firearm, known as a Dane gun. The explosion occurred around 8:30 a.m., killing 12-year-old Abubakar Muhammed and injuring seven others, according to police spokesperson Mansir Hassan. A coordinated response involving the Divisional Police Officer of Kawo Division, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local government officials was swiftly deployed to assess the scene.

Women are grappling with the loss of young lives and the trauma of injured survivors. “Nasrin was like a daughter to all of us,” said Aisha Suleiman, a neighbor and mother of three. “Her mother is inconsolable, and we’re all trying to hold her up, but it’s hard when our hearts are breaking too.” Women in the community have taken on the role of providing emotional support, organizing communal prayers, and caring for the injured, even as they navigate their own grief.

The explosion’s proximity to the old site of the Nigerian Defence Academy has heightened fears among residents, particularly women, who worry about the safety of their children in an area already strained by economic hardship and security concerns. “We send our kids to play or run errands, but now we’re scared to let them out of sight,” said Fatima Usman, a local trader and single mother. “How do we protect them when things like this happen so close to home?”

Community leaders have called for increased safety measures and awareness campaigns about the dangers of locally made firearms, which are prevalent in the region. Women’s groups in Abakpa are also advocating for psychosocial support to help families cope with the trauma. “We need more than just investigations,” said Rahmatu Idris, a member of a local women’s cooperative. “Our community needs healing, and women are at the heart of that process. We’re the ones holding families together.”

The Kaduna State government has promised a thorough assessment, with visits from the Commissioner of Police, the Garrison Commander, and the Chairman of Kaduna North Local Government. Yet, for the women of Abakpa, the immediate challenge is finding strength amid sorrow.

 

 

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Kaduna Woman Seeks Divorce, Faces Husband’s Refusal to Accept Dowry Refund

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By Prosper Mene 

Zainab Sulaiman, a woman from Rigasa, Kaduna State, took a bold step in a Shari’a court to divorce her husband, Aliyu Sulaiman through Khul’i, an Islamic legal process allowing a woman to redeem herself from marriage by returning her dowry. However, Aliyu Sulaiman declined the dowry refund she offered, complicating her purs‏uit of divorce and showcasing the challenges women face in navigating marital disputes within traditional legal frameworks.

 

Zainab’s request for divorce reflects a growing trend of women in Kaduna asserting their rights under Islamic law, despite resistance from spouses or societal pressures. “I just want to move on with my life,” Zainab reportedly told the court, according to sources familiar with the proceedings. Her offer to return the dowry, a significant gesture in Khul’i proceedings, shows her determination to secure her freedom, even at personal cost.

Aliyu’s refusal to accept the dowry refund has stalled the process, leaving Zainab in limbo. This development raises questions about the power dynamics in such cases, where a husband’s consent can delay or derail a woman’s quest for autonomy. Women’s rights advocates in Kaduna argue that such situations highlight the need for greater legal support and awareness for women navigating Shari’a courts. “When a woman takes the step to seek Khul’i, it’s often after exhausting all other options,” said Fatima Mohammed, a local advocate for women’s rights. “Zainab’s case shows how much courage it takes to challenge the status quo.”

The Rigasa community, where the case is unfolding, has seen similar cases in recent years, with women increasingly using Khul’i to exit marriages. In September 2024, another woman, Zainab Musa, successfully dissolved her marriage at the same court by returning a N100,000 dowry, though only after overcoming reconciliation attempts. These cases reflect the resilience of women in the face of economic and social constraints, as many, like Zainab Sulaiman, bear the financial burden of repaying dowries while also managing household responsibilities.

The court has yet to announce its next steps, but Zainab’s situation has sparked discussions among women in Rigasa about their rights and the barriers they face. “It’s not just about the money,” said Amina Yusuf, a local trader and mother. “It’s about being heard and respected when you know the marriage isn’t working.” As the case progresses, Zainab Sulaiman’s stand serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and agency of women seeking to reclaim their futures in Kaduna’s Shari’a court

s.

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Ghana’s Chief Justice Suspended: A Woman’s Leadership Under Scrutiny

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By Prosper Mene, April 22, 2025

Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama announced the immediate suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Torkornoo, the country’s top judge, pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct. As the third woman to hold the prestigious position, Torkornoo’s suspension sparks a national conversation about the challenges and scrutiny faced by women in high-profile leadership roles within Ghana’s judiciary.

The decision follows three petitions calling for Torkornoo’s removal, citing allegations of tampering with court records and misuse of public funds, though specific details remain undisclosed. President Mahama, in consultation with the Council of State, determined a prima facie case exists, prompting the formation of a five-member investigative committee led by Supreme Court Justice Gabriel Pwamang. Torkornoo, who has served as Chief Justice since June 2023, is the first sitting chief justice to face a formal investigation through a constitutional process, marking a historic moment for Ghana’s judiciary.

Appointed as the 15th Chief Justice and one of only three women to hold the role, Torkornoo, 61, has been a trailblazer, advocating for judicial reforms like court automation and commercial court oversight. Yet, her tenure has not been without controversy. A previous petition in December 2024, filed by law professor Stephen Kwaku Asare, accused her of misconduct and incompetence for bypassing the Judicial Council in recommending five appeal court judges for Supreme Court appointment.

Women’s rights advocates argue that Torkornoo’s case highlights the disproportionate scrutiny female leaders endure. “When a woman rises to such a position, every move is magnified,” said Abena Mensah, a gender equality activist in Accra. “Mistakes or allegations that might be overlooked in a man are weaponized against women like Torkornoo.” The Chief Justice herself addressed such pressures during a women’s leadership conference in November 2024, stating, “People talk, but I remain focused despite the chaos.”

The suspension has also raised concerns among women in the legal profession about the broader implications for gender equity in Ghana’s judiciary. With only three female Chief Justices in the country’s history—Georgina Theodora Wood, Sophia Akuffo, and now Torkornoo—the investigation could deter aspiring female judges. “It sends a message that women in power are vulnerable to being targeted,” said Esther Owusu, a lawyer and member of the Ghana Bar Association. “We need to ensure this process is fair and transparent, not a witch hunt.”

Torkornoo’s contributions, including her leadership in the E-Justice Committee and her role in the 2020 election petition, have been lauded, but the allegations now cast a shadow over her legacy. The investigative committee, which includes two Supreme Court justices and three non-legal members, is expected to probe the petitions thoroughly, with findings to determine whether Torkornoo will be reinstated or removed.

 

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Nigeria’s Outdated Abortion Laws Fuel Maternal Health Crisis, Deny Women Autonomy

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By Prosper Mene 

A silent crisis in Nigeria is claiming countless lives as outdated abortion laws push women toward unsafe procedures, increasing one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates. With 10-20% of pregnancies ending in miscarriage and restrictive legislation rooted in colonial-era policies, women are denied autonomy over their reproductive health, forcing many into dangerous backstreet abortions that endanger their lives.

Nigeria’s laws, which permit abortion only to save a woman’s life, drive an estimated 20% of maternal deaths through unsafe procedures, according to health advocates. The World Health Organization reports that the country’s maternal mortality ratio stands at a staggering 814 deaths per 100,000 live births, among the highest globally. For many Nigerian women, the lack of legal access to safe abortions means resorting to unregulated clinics or traditional methods, often with devastating consequences.

“It’s a matter of bodily autonomy,” says Dr. Aisha Bello, a Lagos-based gynecologist and reproductive rights advocate. “Women are dying because the system prioritizes control over their bodies instead of their survival. These laws are upheld by lawmakers, mostly men, who ignore the realities women face.”

The statistics are grim: approximately 1 in 5 pregnancies in Nigeria ends in miscarriage, and unsafe abortions contribute significantly to the maternal death toll. Rural women, who often lack access to quality healthcare, are particularly vulnerable. In regions plagued by poverty and limited medical infrastructure, the risks of clandestine procedures are amplified, with complications like severe bleeding or infection claiming lives that could have been saved.

Advocacy groups are pushing for legislative reform to expand access to safe abortions, citing models like South Africa, where broader reproductive rights have reduced maternal mortality. But resistance remains fierce in Nigeria’s male-dominated political sphere, where bills addressing women’s health often stall. Activists argue that decriminalizing abortion could save thousands of lives annually while affirming women’s rights to make decisions about their bodies.

 

 

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Nigerian Woman Ejected from Church Over Attire, Igniting Fierce Modesty Debate

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By Prosper Mene

A viral video showing a Nigerian woman being sent away from a church for wearing a dress deemed immodest has sparked a heated nationwide debate about women’s treatment in religious spaces and societal expectations of female attire. The incident, in which the woman was criticized for showing cleavage, has divided opinions, with some defending the church’s stance on modesty and others condemning it as patriarchal overreach.

The footage, widely shared on social media platforms, captures the moment the woman was asked to leave the service, prompting outrage from viewers who argue that such actions reflect deeper gender biases in Nigeria’s religious institutions. “This is about control, not modesty,” one social media user posted. “Women are judged for their clothes while men face no such scrutiny.” Others, however, supported the church, citing the importance of adhering to religious dress codes. “Churches have rules. If you don’t follow them, don’t complain,” another user wrote.

The incident shows a a high tension in Nigeria, where conservative cultural and religious norms often dictate strict expectations for women’s appearance and behavior. In many churches, unwritten dress codes emphasize modesty, typically long skirts, covered shoulders, and no cleavage, placing disproportionate pressure on women to conform. Critics argue this focus distracts from spiritual inclusivity and reinforces gender inequality.

“This isn’t just about a dress; it’s about how women are policed in spaces meant for worship,” says Funmi Adebayo, a Lagos-based gender rights advocate. “Men rarely face this level of judgment, yet women are shamed or excluded for their choices. It’s a double standard rooted in patriarchy.”

The debate has also highlighted the role of social media in amplifying women’s voices. The woman in the video, whose identity remains undisclosed, has received both support and criticism online, with hashtags like #ChurchModesty and #Women’sRights trending in Nigeria. Some Social Media posts call for churches to prioritize compassion over rigid rules, while others defend religious institutions’ right to enforce standards.

This is not the first time Nigeria’s religious spaces have faced scrutiny over gender dynamics. Similar incidents, including women being barred for wearing trousers or uncovered hair, have fueled discussions about balancing tradition with personal freedom. Yet, change remains slow in a country where religious authority holds significant sway, and women often bear the brunt of moral policing.

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Pope Francis’ Death: A Legacy of Progress for Women in the Catholic Church.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The death of Pope Francis at age 88 has prompted global mourning, with many reflecting on his transformative papacy, particularly his efforts to elevate the role of women in the Catholic Church. The first Latin American pontiff, who died of a stroke and heart failure on Monday, leaves behind a complex legacy that balanced tradition with progressive steps toward gender inclusion.

Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was a vocal advocate for the marginalized, and his papacy saw incremental but significant changes for women within the Church’s rigid structures. “Pope Francis’s greatest gift was that he could get people to think beyond their own self-interest,” said Christine Allen, CEO of the Catholic Agency For Overseas Development (CAFOD), highlighting his push for inclusivity. His willingness to engage women in senior roles marked a departure from his predecessors, even as critics argue he fell short of fully addressing gender equality.

One of Francis’ most notable reforms was opening the door for women to take on leadership roles traditionally reserved for men. In 2021, he appointed Sister Nathalie Becquart as the first female undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops, granting her a voting role in a body that advises the pope. This move was hailed as historic, signaling that women could influence the Church’s decision-making processes. He also expanded women’s participation in liturgical roles, formally allowing them to serve as lectors and acolytes, roles once exclusive to men.

Francis’ outreach extended to issues affecting women globally. He spoke out against gender-based violence and economic inequality, emphasizing the dignity of women in his encyclicals and public addresses. In 2019, during a visit to a women’s prison in Panama, he washed the feet of female inmates, a gesture of humility that underscored his commitment to uplifting women on society’s margins. His advocacy for decriminalizing homosexuality and his call for the Church to be more welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community also resonated with many women who felt alienated by traditional Church teachings.

However, Francis’ legacy on women’s issues is not without criticism. The Women’s Ordination Conference expressed frustration at his refusal to consider ordaining women as priests, a stance that maintained the Church’s male-dominated hierarchy. “While he opened doors, he kept others firmly shut,” said a statement from the group, reflecting the disappointment of those who hoped for bolder reforms. Francis himself maintained that women’s contributions were vital but distinct from the ordained priesthood, a position that drew both praise for its nuance and criticism for its conservatism.

In Colombia, a woman holding a sign reading, “Pope Francis, the LGBT community honors and respects you, thank you,” captured the sentiment of many who saw him as a bridge between tradition and progress. Social media posts echoed this duality, with one X user, a former Catholic, acknowledging his “attempts at progress” for women and the LGBTQ+ community while noting the Church’s historical shortcomings.

As preparations for Francis’ funeral at the Basilica of St. Mary Major and the conclave to elect his successor, the question of women’s roles looms large. The next pope will inherit a Church grappling with calls for greater gender equity, a conversation Francis undeniably advanced, even if imperfectly. For the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, particularly women, his death marks not just the end of a papacy but a moment to reflect on how far the Church has come and how far it has yet to go.By Prosper Mene

 

The death of Pope Francis at age 88 has prompted global mourning, with many reflecting on his transformative papacy, particularly his efforts to elevate the role of women in the Catholic Church. The first Latin American pontiff, who died of a stroke and heart failure on Monday, leaves behind a complex legacy that balanced tradition with progressive steps toward gender inclusion.

Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was a vocal advocate for the marginalized, and his papacy saw incremental but significant changes for women within the Church’s rigid structures. “Pope Francis’s greatest gift was that he could get people to think beyond their own self-interest,” said Christine Allen, CEO of the Catholic Agency For Overseas Development (CAFOD), highlighting his push for inclusivity. His willingness to engage women in senior roles marked a departure from his predecessors, even as critics argue he fell short of fully addressing gender equality.

One of Francis’ most notable reforms was opening the door for women to take on leadership roles traditionally reserved for men. In 2021, he appointed Sister Nathalie Becquart as the first female undersecretary of the Synod of Bishops, granting her a voting role in a body that advises the pope. This move was hailed as historic, signaling that women could influence the Church’s decision-making processes. He also expanded women’s participation in liturgical roles, formally allowing them to serve as lectors and acolytes, roles once exclusive to men.

Francis’ outreach extended to issues affecting women globally. He spoke out against gender-based violence and economic inequality, emphasizing the dignity of women in his encyclicals and public addresses. In 2019, during a visit to a women’s prison in Panama, he washed the feet of female inmates, a gesture of humility that underscored his commitment to uplifting women on society’s margins. His advocacy for decriminalizing homosexuality and his call for the Church to be more welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community also resonated with many women who felt alienated by traditional Church teachings.

However, Francis’ legacy on women’s issues is not without criticism. The Women’s Ordination Conference expressed frustration at his refusal to consider ordaining women as priests, a stance that maintained the Church’s male-dominated hierarchy. “While he opened doors, he kept others firmly shut,” said a statement from the group, reflecting the disappointment of those who hoped for bolder reforms. Francis himself maintained that women’s contributions were vital but distinct from the ordained priesthood, a position that drew both praise for its nuance and criticism for its conservatism.

In Colombia, a woman holding a sign reading, “Pope Francis, the LGBT community honors and respects you, thank you,” captured the sentiment of many who saw him as a bridge between tradition and progress. Social media posts echoed this duality, with one X user, a former Catholic, acknowledging his “attempts at progress” for women and the LGBTQ+ community while noting the Church’s historical shortcomings.

As preparations for Francis’ funeral at the Basilica of St. Mary Major and the conclave to elect his successor, the question of women’s roles looms large. The next pope will inherit a Church grappling with calls for greater gender equity, a conversation Francis undeniably advanced, even if imperfectly. For the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, particularly women, his death marks not just the end of a papacy but a moment to reflect on how far the Church has come and how far it has yet to go.

 

 

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Faces New Threats as Gunmen Attack Family Home

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By Prosper Mene 

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, lawmaker representing Kogi Central, raised the alarm on after armed gunmen raided her family residence in Obeiba-Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area, Kogi State. The attack, confirmed by the Kogi Police Command is a dangerous escalation in the ongoing saga surrounding one of Nigeria’s few female senators, who has been at the center of controversy since accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment in February 2025.

The assault on her home comes after a six-month suspension from the Senate, imposed on March 6, 2025, which Akpoti-Uduaghan and her supporters claim was retaliation for her allegations against Akpabio. The Senate cited “gross misconduct” and “disruptive behavior” related to a seating dispute, but critics, including the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), have called the suspension “unlawful” and a violation of her free speech rights.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, the first woman senator from Kogi State, has faced relentless challenges. Her security detail was withdrawn after suspension, and she alleges threats to her life, accusing Akpabio of orchestrating intimidation tactics. On April 13, she urged the Inspector General of Police to dismiss Akpabio’s petition against her for defamation and instead investigate him for assassination threats. Her constituents have rallied in her defense, filing a lawsuit on April 4, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja to challenge the suspension as a violation of their right to political participation.

Akpoti-Uduaghan dedicated to her supporters. However, the attack on her home has heightened fears for her safety. “This was orchestrated to silence my voice,” she told the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York on March 11, where she sought international support for Nigerian women facing political marginalization.

Civil society groups and international media, including The New York Times, have condemned her treatment as systemic misogyny in Nigerian politics. With only four women in the 109-seat Senate, her case shows struggle for gender equality in a socially conservative nation.

 

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Former Vice-Chancellor Urges Nigerian Students to Embrace Science for National Progress

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By Prosper Mene 

Professor Chinedum Babalola, a distinguished Professor of Pharmacy and former Vice-Chancellor of Chrisland University in Ogun State, called on Nigerian students to pursue careers in science-related fields, emphasizing their critical role in human survival and national development. Speaking at a university event in Abeokuta, Babalola cited the transformative power of science in addressing Nigeria’s challenges, from healthcare to economic growth.

“Science is the backbone of progress,” Babalola stated, addressing a group of students and faculty. “Whether it’s developing new medicines, improving agriculture, or tackling climate change, science remains essential to our survival and the advancement of our society.” Her remarks come at a time when Nigeria faces a shortage of skilled professionals in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, with only 20% of university graduates in 2024 coming from science-related disciplines, according to the National Universities Commission.

Babalola, a force of reckoning in pharmaceutical research and the first female Vice-Chancellor of Chrisland University, drew from her decades-long career to inspire the next generation. Her work in pharmacokinetics and drug development has earned international recognition, including the African Union’s Kwame Nkrumah Prize for Scientific Excellence in 2016. She urged students, particularly young women, to overcome societal barriers and pursue STEM careers, noting that women remain underrepresented in these fields, making up just 25% of Nigeria’s STEM workforce.

The professor also called for increased investment in science education and research infrastructure, citing inadequate funding and outdated facilities as major hurdles. “Our universities need modern laboratories and partnerships with industries to train students effectively,” she said, pointing to successful models in countries like South Africa and India.

Students at the event expressed enthusiasm for Babalola’s message. “Her story motivates me to pursue my dream of becoming a biomedical engineer,” said 19-year-old Aisha Ibrahim, a second-year student. Others called for mentorship programs to guide aspiring scientists, a suggestion Babalola endorsed, pledging to support initiatives at Chrisland University.

Her call to action resonates with Nigeria’s push for innovation-driven growth.

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Nigerian Women Hit Hard by Economic Woes and CBEX Investment Scam

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By Prosper Mene, April 16, 2025

Nigerian women, struggling with mounting economic hardship, are reeling from significant financial losses due to a fraudulent investment platform known as CBEX, which has locked thousands of users out of their accounts. The app, which lured investors with promises of high returns, up to 60% in three months, has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with women among the hardest hit as they struggle to recover life savings amid Nigeria’s broader economic challenges.

CBEX, marketed as a legitimate crypto-trading platform, gained fame among Nigerians seeking financial relief in an economy battered by inflation rates hovering around 33% and a weakened naira. Many women, including single mothers, petty traders, and small-scale entrepreneurs, invested their savings, hoping to secure a better future. However, since early March 2025, users have reported being unable to access their funds, with the platform’s customer service channels going silent. “I invested ₦250,000, my entire savings from my tailoring business,” said Amina Yusuf, a 38-year-old mother of three from Lagos. “Now, I can’t even feed my children properly.”

Posts on social media have amplified the public’s frustration, with hashtags like #CBEXScam and #ReturnOurMoney trending as victims share screenshots of locked accounts and unfulfilled withdrawal requests. One user, @NgoziBlessing

, posted, “CBEX took my ₦180,000 meant for my shop rent. How do I survive now?” The outcry has drawn attention to the plight of women, who often bear the brunt of economic instability due to limited access to formal financial systems and safety nets.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has yet to issue a statement on CBEX, despite its mandate to regulate investment platforms. This silence has fueled accusations of regulatory negligence, with victims demanding accountability. “The SEC should have flagged CBEX before it got this bad,” said Chidinma Okeke, a financial literacy advocate in Abuja. “Women are losing everything because no one is protecting us.” The absence of a response mirrors broader systemic issues, as Nigeria’s economic downturn—marked by fuel subsidy removal and rising food prices—continues to disproportionately affect women.

CBEX’s website, now inaccessible, previously claimed registration with global financial authorities, a claim now widely disputed. Preliminary investigations by The Punch suggest the platform may be linked to unregistered offshore entities, a common tactic used in Ponzi-like schemes targeting vulnerable populations. The scam’s scale remains unclear, but estimates from social media posts indicate losses in the tens of millions of naira, with women making up a significant portion of victims due to targeted marketing on platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram.

Women’s groups, including the Nigerian Women in Business Network, have called for urgent government intervention, urging the SEC and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate CBEX and similar platforms. “This is not just a scam; it’s an attack on the economic survival of Nigerian women,” said Funmi Adeyemi, the network’s spokesperson. They have also advocated for stronger financial literacy programs to empower women against predatory schemes.

The CBEX scandal is a window to the broader economic struggles facing Nigerians women, who face unemployment rates of over 40% in some regions and limited access to credit. As inflation erodes purchasing power, many turned to high-risk investments like CBEX out of desperation. “We thought it was our way out,” said Esther Okonkwo, a vegetable seller in Onitsha who lost ₦100,000. “Now, we’re worse off than before.”

While the public awaits regulatory action, victims are organizing online and offline to demand justice, with some planning a protest at the SEC’s Abuja headquarters next week. The CBEX scam has not only shattered financial dreams but also highlighted the urgent need for stronger protections for Nigerian women navigating an increasingly precarious economic landscape.

 

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Women Bear Brunt of Deadly Herders’ Attack in Benue’s Otobi Community

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By Prosper Mene, April 15, 2025 

A devastating attack by suspected armed herders on the Otobi community in Akpa district, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, has left many feared dead, with women among the hardest hit. The assault, which began around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, plunged the village into chaos as gunmen opened fire and set homes ablaze, forcing families to flee in terror.

Local resident Edwin Emma, speaking to AIT, described the harrowing scene: “My wife and children are fleeing as I speak. We are helpless.” Women, often tasked with protecting children and maintaining households, faced unimaginable risks during the onslaught. Reports indicate that many were caught in the crossfire while trying to shepherd their families to safety, with some feared among the casualties. “The women were running, carrying babies, but the shooting was everywhere,” a villager told Daily Post, highlighting their vulnerability in the chaos.

The attack, confirmed by lawmaker Kennedy Angbo, adds to a string of violent incidents in Otukpo, including a recent killing at the Otobi Dam. For women in Otobi, already burdened by cultural expectations and economic hardship, the invasion compounds fears of displacement and loss. “Our homes are gone, our children are scattered,” said one woman, who asked to remain anonymous for safety. The destruction of houses leaves women, who often anchor community recovery, grappling with an uncertain future.

Advocates are calling for urgent intervention to protect vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, as hundreds remain displaced. “The government must act to secure these communities and support the women left to rebuild,” said Martha Ikyo, a local gender rights activist. With Otobi hosting critical infrastructure like a federal dam, the recurring violence exposes a broader failure to safeguard rural women from escalating herder-farmer conflicts.

The women of Otobi are showing strength despite their community’s grief, and they’re calling for peace and protection.

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