In a shocking incident that unfolded in Bogobiri, a Hausa-Fulani residential area in Cross River State, a housewife identified as Maryam Zakari allegedly scalded her son, Babanne Abdulahi, with boiling water, reportedly due to concerns over his safety. The incident occurred last Thursday, leaving the young man with severe burns.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of safety within our homes and communities. Eyewitnesses at the scene recounted that Maryam Zakari discovered her son in his room with his girlfriend. Instead of using verbal caution, she resorted to pouring boiling water on him, subsequently calling out for help. This act, driven by her perceived safety concerns, has raised serious alarm bells within the community.
Many sympathizers gathered at the scene, condemning Maryam Zakari for her actions. According to Dauda, an eyewitness, the issue extends beyond the presence of the girlfriend; it also involves financial matters. Babanne Abdulahi allegedly did not remit his daily wages to his mother but gave them to his girlfriend, adding an additional layer of complexity to the safety dynamics in this family.
The victim, suffering from severe burns, was promptly rushed to a private clinic in Calabar for medical attention, highlighting the urgency of addressing the safety of individuals who have been subjected to harm.
As of now, the state police command Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, has stated that the matter has not been officially reported to the police. This underscores the importance of fostering a safe environment where individuals feel comfortable reporting incidents of concern to the appropriate authorities.
Efforts to speak with both the husband and the wife regarding this incident have been unfruitful, as they have remained silent on the matter.
The case underscores the importance of addressing concerns over safety through appropriate channels and dialogue rather than resorting to harmful actions. It serves as a poignant example of how safety concerns, if not handled appropriately, can lead to tragic consequences within our communities.
