The Origin of Janbom

Janbo is the father of Sayyada and hails from a village on the way to Gashua, called Kwalji Mandawa. Janbo grew up as a favorite child of his father, Mohammed Bubare. Mohammed Bubare had two wives, Maryamu and Zainab. Maryamu’s children, Salji and Haruna, were known for their lack of compassion and their propensity for mischief. There was a deep-seated animosity between the two neighborhoods because Bulama Saleh once courted Zainab but didn’t marry her. This animosity persisted even as they grew older.

Janbo fell deeply in love with Aisha. However, Bulama Saleh disapproved of their relationship and forbade it. Janbo was a religious man who, despite his rural upbringing, was educated and wealthy with cattle, sheep, and chickens. His father loved him for his compassionate nature. One day, Janbo approached his father, seeking his blessing for the marriage.

"Let them be, and let us proceed with this marriage," his father advised. "It doesn't concern them. Use your wisdom."

"It’s not my decision but Bulama Saleh's," his father replied. "But don’t worry, continue with your relationship. May Allah grant you success. I will go to Kankare and talk to Bulama Sa’idu about it. Keep preparing for the wedding since you have already built the house you will live in."

The next morning, Janbo’s father went to Kankare to see Sa’idu and told him everything. "Don’t worry, bring the bride price. I will officiate the marriage tomorrow. I will ensure that Saleh is present." Grateful, Janbo’s father returned home and informed Janbo of the good news. Overjoyed, Janbo prepared the bride price and everything needed according to Fulani customs.

Janbo’s older siblings resented him because he surpassed them in everything, and their father favored him. Despite this, Janbo got married and had children, further deepening the resentment.

When Bulama Saleh returned, he entered Aisha’s mother’s room and declared, "She is not for you. If the marriage proceeds, do not involve me or my family."

Aisha’s mother, Adama, was hurt by her husband's words but was powerless to change them. "Aisha, be patient. Don’t let this trouble you. We will still give you your things. We will sell one of your two cows for your expenses. Do you understand?" 

"Thank you," Aisha replied. "I will stay and accept whatever comes."

That night, Aisha was taken to her new home, and they were happy. Bubare ensured everything went smoothly, though he secretly resented his siblings' interference. After a week, they began harassing him at night. Realizing what was happening, Janbo informed his father, who advised him, "Janbo, I want you to leave tomorrow or the day after. Sell three of your cows and five sheep, gather the money, and move to another town until things settle down."

"I will leave tomorrow and do everything you said," Janbo agreed. The next day, they sold the specified livestock. Aisha went to bid farewell to her mother, who was deeply saddened. That night, Janbo and Aisha packed up and left. Inna Zainab wept as they departed, for Janbo was her only child.