By Philip Annah
Anger and grief have engulfed Gboko, Benue State, following the death of a 20-year-old woman, Ngohide Monkyegh, under circumstances residents describe as disturbing and suspicious.
Community sources alleged that the deceased became pregnant after repeated abuse by a relative identified as her uncle, described as a religious figure.
According to a source, efforts to conceal the pregnancy led to a failed abortion that resulted in her death.
“The information we received is that her uncle… repeatedly abused her and got her pregnant. In a bid to conceal the situation, she was taken for an abortion,” the source said.
“Unfortunately, the procedure went wrong, and she developed complications that led to her death.”
The incident has sparked allegations of a cover-up and drawn the attention of civil society groups demanding justice.
“This is not just a family matter; it is a societal issue. We must ensure that the truth comes out,” the source added.
Residents and advocacy groups have called on law enforcement agencies to launch a thorough investigation and prosecute anyone found culpable.
However, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Udeme Edet, said she had yet to receive an official report on the incident.
© 2026, Standard Focus. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from STANDARD FOCUS.