Minna, Niger State – Residents of the Tugan-Goro area of Minna are still reeling from shock after a neighbour allegedly attacked a nursing mother and her one-month-old baby in their own home. The incident, which happened on June 18, 2025, has sparked outrage and renewed calls for better protection for women and children across Nigeria.
Mrs. Deborah Andrew was at home, peacefully breastfeeding her newborn baby, when the unthinkable happened. Her husband, Mr. Andrew, had already left for work, leaving her alone with the infant.
“I was in bed feeding my baby when Surajo suddenly came into my room,” Mrs. Andrew told reporter.
“He sat on my stomach, overpowered me, and started strangling me. He even threw my baby on the floor. I had just delivered my baby through surgery, and I was in so much pain.”
Mrs. Andrew said she survived the attack “only by the grace of God” because most other tenants had gone out. Only one woman, Amarya, was present, but she was unable to stop the attacker.
Husband’s Anguish and Call for Justice
Mr. Andrew was at his place of work when he received a frantic call from his wife.
“My wife called me and said somebody wanted to kill her. At first, I didn’t believe her until I got home and saw what happened,” he said. “Surajo beat her up mercilessly. Her eyes were covered with blood and swollen. My baby was also hurt. We have never had any issue with him before.”
Mr. Andrew added, “If he was under the influence of drugs, he should have gone to the road to fight with a trailer or another man, not attack my wife and baby. I want justice for my wife because his intention was to kill her.”
Police Confirm Arrest, Investigation Ongoing
The Niger State Police Command has confirmed the incident.
SP Wasiu Abiodun, the police spokesperson, said, “On June 18, 2025, at about 10:00 am, a report of assault and grievous hurt was made at Chanchaga Division. The suspect, Surajo, intentionally assaulted Mrs. Deborah Andrew and her infant baby at about 9:20 am the same day.”
He added, “Police operatives arrested the suspect. The victims were taken to Minna General Hospital for treatment and have since been discharged. The suspect is in custody, and investigation is ongoing.”
Community in Shock and Calls for Action
Neighbours of the Tugan-Goro area expressed shock and sadness over the incident.
“We never expected this kind of thing to happen here. We hope the police will do the right thing and make sure justice is served,” said one neighbour who asked not to be named.
The incident has also highlighted the growing problem of gender-based violence in Nigeria. Over 1,000 cases of sexual and gender-based violence were reported in Niger State alone in the past year.
Experts warn that domestic violence is becoming an epidemic, affecting women and girls from all backgrounds and locations.
This tragic story is not an isolated case. Across Nigeria, women are facing increasing threats of violence, both at home and in public. In 2025 alone, there have already been 17 incidents and 19 deaths related to femicide.
The problem is made worse by weak legal protections, gender norms, and poor law enforcement responses, allowing perpetrators to act with impunity.
“Domestic violence is now a monster in Nigeria, and it must be eliminated fast,” says relationship counsellor Mr. Obi Achugo. “We must create a culture where women are secure and valued.”
What Can Be Done?
Experts recommend more awareness campaigns, stronger laws, and better support for victims.
“We need more sensitization on domestic violence. The community, government, and law enforcement must all work together to protect women and children,” said a rights activist.
What Next?
As the police continue their investigation, the family of Mrs. Deborah Andrew is demanding justice. Many are watching to see how the authorities will handle the case, hoping it will serve as a warning to others who might think of harming innocent women and children.
Quote of the Day
“A society that does not protect its women and children has no future. Let us stand together to end violence in our homes and communities.”
As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that justice will be served and that such acts of violence will not go unpunished. This tragic incident is a reminder of the urgent need for stronger protections for women and children in Nigeria.
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