In a recent revelation, it has come to light that Leah Sharibu, a name synonymous with courage and resilience, endured not one but multiple marriages during her harrowing captivity. Leah’s story, which gained international attention, is a testament to her unwavering faith and determination amidst the darkest of circumstances.
Leah, who was initially reported to have divorced one Abdulrahman, was subsequently wedded to another commander, Ali Abdallah, operating within the Lake Chad region under the banner of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). This revelation has shed new light on her ordeal, sparking renewed concerns for her well-being and safety.
The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, led by Reverend Gideon Para-Mallam, has been at the forefront of the campaign for Leah Sharibu’s release. In an exclusive interview with Findwhosabi, Para-Mallam disclosed that he had spoken with Leah’s parents recently, shedding light on her plight and the circumstances surrounding her reported marriages.
Leah Sharibu’s journey into infamy began when she was among the 110 female students abducted by Boko Haram terrorists from the Government Girls’ Science and Technical College in Dapchi, Yobe State, on February 19, 2018. While many of her fellow captives were eventually released through negotiations, Leah, who was just 14 years old at the time, remained in captivity. Her unwavering resolve to uphold her Christian faith was the primary reason for her continued captivity, as she refused to renounce her beliefs.
Reverend Para-Mallam clarified the context surrounding Leah’s marriages, asserting that they should not be regarded as consensual unions. He emphasized that Leah was forced into these marriages and that the term “marriage” should not be applied to her situation. Instead, it should be seen as a series of cruel and coercive acts inflicted upon her as part of her captivity.
He further criticized the insensitivity of media coverage surrounding Leah’s situation, emphasizing that her primary goal remains her education, which was abruptly halted due to her abduction. The recent reports suggesting her conversion to Islam should be taken with caution, as conversions in captivity do not necessarily reflect genuine changes in beliefs.
Reverend Para-Mallam implored the media and the public to consider the safety and well-being of those still in captivity and exercise restraint in their reporting. He drew parallels with the suffering endured by women in conflict zones like Rwanda and Bosnia, highlighting the broader issue of sexual abuse and exploitation during times of conflict.
In conclusion, Reverend Para-Mallam called upon political leaders, including President Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Prof. Babagana Zulum of Borno State, to take proactive steps to secure the release of Leah Sharibu and others still in captivity. He stressed the urgent need for tangible support, rehabilitation, and counseling for these survivors who have endured unimaginable trauma. The Para-Mallam Peace Foundation remains committed to their cause, and public awareness, as exemplified by The Findwhosabi investigation, is crucial in bringing attention to their plight and advocating for their freedom and recovery.