NIGERIA: Abandoned by Husband After Abductions

A Christian woman’s husband has abandoned her after multiple abductions.

Islamists in the central Nigerian state of Kaduna first kidnapped Mary Abeni in February 2022 and held her for six months. In November of the same year, Mary was abducted by militant Fulani Muslims. After three months, her family was able to secure her release. In July 2023, she was taken a third time by militant Fulani Muslims and was sexually assaulted, becoming pregnant. “Her captors tried to force Mary to deny Christ and embrace Islam to regain her freedom,” said a Front-Line Worker. “But she [told them that she] chose to rather die than abandon her faith.” Mary was held for two months during her third captivity. When she was freed and returned to her husband, he abandoned her, leaving her to recover alone. A local church and VOM workers are now supporting Mary and her two young children. Pray for God to strengthen Mary and mentally and emotionally heal her from the trauma she has endured.