The African Action Congress (ACC) has expressed concerns over a 20-year-old deaf girl named Margret Joshua, who was brutally assaulted in Tula Baule Yakku, Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State, on 27th May, 2025.
According to AAC, Margret was attacked while washing clothes by the riverside when Abubakar Lamido, the alleged assailant, attempted to rape her. Upon resistance, Lamido reportedly beat her severely, inflicting internal injuries that required emergency surgery.
Comrade Bobo Benson-Bagwiba, the chairman of the AAC, lamented the situation when he stated that “This is not only a tragic case of gender-based violence, but also a stark reminder of the vulnerability of persons living with disabilities in rural Nigeria.
Comr. Benson further stated that “Margret’s ordeal is unacceptable, and justice must be swift, transparent, and uncompromising.”
Margret’s family reported the case to the Tula Division of the Nigeria Police Force. Although Lamido was brought in for questioning, he denied the attack, claiming he merely held her hand. However, medical examinations conducted at the Bambam Cottage Hospital and Kaltungo General Hospital confirmed internal bleeding, prompting emergency surgical intervention.
The AAC condemned the alleged assault in the strongest terms and outlined a list of demands, including the immediate arrest and prosecution of the suspect, financial responsibility for Margret’s medical care, and full protection for her family – who are reportedly facing community pressure and intimidation.
The party also pledged to provide legal assistance to Margret’s family and ensure her full recovery – both physically and emotionally.