How Young Lady Died During Alleged Unsafe And Hidden Abortion In Cross River

By CrossRiverWatch Admin 

An unsafe and hidden abortion refers to an abortion that is carried out in unsafe conditions or kept secret because of fear, stigma, legal restrictions, or social pressure.

While unsafe abortion is the termination of a pregnancy by someone who lacks the necessary medical skills, or in an environment that does not meet basic medical standards and can lead to severe bleeding, infection, infertility, or even death.

Hidden abortion on the other hand is an abortion performed secretly to avoid judgment, family pressure, or legal consequences. According to medical experts, this may or may not be medically safe, depending on who performs it and where it takes place.

This was the fate of a young lady from Apiapum Community in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State, who reportedly died after attempting to end a five‑month pregnancy with drugs and herbal medicines.

CrossRiverWatch gathered that the young lady identified as Oka, took unprescribed pills and herbal medicine to terminate the pregnancy after the man responsible refused to accept or support her.

It was reported that after using the substances her condition worsened. Her stomach and legs were swollen. She was rushed to Ekana’s Hospital in critical condition.

Witnesses said she cried for help, but help was thousands of miles away and by the time they got to the hospital the complications were very severe. 

Medical staff could do little as she finally gave up the ghost, throwing loved ones into a pool of tears.

Health worker Miss Judith Lukpata, said unsafe abortion can cause serious damage to the womb and lead to life long reproductive problems, including infertility. She added that it can also cause heavy bleeding, infection, organ failure and death.

Residents and relatives described Oka’s death as painful and tragic. The case shows how hidden and unsafe abortions can become life‑threatening when people try to end pregnancies without proper medical care.

There are calls for more support for young women facing unwanted pregnancies, and urging families, health workers and leaders to speak openly about the dangers of abortion to prevent further deaths.

Short Link: