AAC Demands Justice for Deaf Girl Brutally Assaulted in Gombe on Children’s Day

GOMBE, Nigeria – The African Action Congress (AAC) has called for urgent justice following the brutal assault of Margret Joshua, a 20-year-old deaf girl, who was viciously attacked on May 27, 2025—Children’s Day—while washing clothes by a riverside in Tula-Bwele Yakku, Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe State.

According to a statement released by the AAC Gombe State Chapter, Margret was reportedly assaulted by one Abubakar Lamido, who allegedly attempted to rape her. Upon her resistance, he beat her mercilessly, leaving her with serious internal injuries.

The victim was rushed to Bambam Cottage Hospital and later transferred to Kaltungo General Hospital, where doctors confirmed internal bleeding. She subsequently underwent emergency surgery to save her life.

The suspect, Abubakar Lamido, was initially questioned by the Tula Division of the Nigerian Police Force but denied the allegations, claiming he merely held Margret’s hand. However, medical reports strongly contradict his version of events.

Condemning the attack as “despicable and inhumane,” AAC Chairman in Gombe, Bobo Benson Bagwiba, issued a five-point demand, which includes:

1. Immediate arrest and prosecution of Abubakar Lamido.

2. A thorough and transparent investigation by the police.

3. Full financial responsibility for Margret’s medical treatment to be borne by the suspect.

4. Protection and support for Margret’s family amid rising community harassment.

5. Systematic handling of disability and gender-based violence cases in rural Nigeria.

AAC further urged the Divisional Police Officer in Tula and Gombe State Commissioner of Police, CP Yahaya Bello, to act decisively. They also called on the Department of State Services (DSS), human rights bodies, civil society groups, disability rights advocates, and the media to rally around Margret’s cause.

“This horrific incident illustrates the double vulnerability faced by young women living with disabilities, and it must not be swept under the carpet,” Bagwiba said. “Justice must not only be done; it must be seen to be done.”

The AAC pledged continued monitoring of the case, provision of legal support, and psychosocial care for Margret until she fully recovers.

As the outcry grows, the spotlight is now on Gombe State’s security apparatus to act swiftly and ensure that the attacker is brought to justice, and that Margret’s dignity is upheld.