The parents of the late Ya Falmata, a young girl from Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, have dismissed claims that their daughter died by suicide, saying she passed away after battling malaria.
Muktar Modu, the girl’s father, told reporters on Wednesday that contrary to social media reports alleging that his daughter took her own life over a planned forced marriage, she had been ill for several days before her death.
According to Modu, his daughter was taken to a hospital where she received treatment for malaria-related fever but later died.
A video seen by reporters showed Modu and his wife being invited by the Chairman of Gubio Local Government, Mali Bulama Mali Gubio, alongside community members and security operatives, to clarify the circumstances surrounding the girl’s death.
In the meeting, the parents reaffirmed that the deceased did not commit suicide as speculated online.
Meanwhile, Modu Bulama, the individual who first circulated the false claim on social media, has apologised publicly, admitting that his post was based on unverified rumours within the community.
The local government chairman urged youths to always verify information before sharing it on social media, warning that those who spread misinformation would be held accountable.
He emphasised the need for responsible use of digital platforms to prevent unnecessary panic and harm to families.
