NIGERIA – The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 northern states has strongly condemned the killing of a female food vendor, identified as Ammaye, in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable.
Ammaye was reportedly stoned to death by a mob of youths in Kasuwan Garba community after she was accused of making a blasphemous remark against Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Witnesses said the victim, who ran a food business in the area, had been handed over to security operatives by the traditional ruler for investigation when the irate crowd overpowered the officers and lynched her.
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev. John Hayab, condemned the incident in strong terms. He described the killing as “dastardly, disgraceful and inhuman,” stressing that such acts represent a failure of both religious leaders and the justice system.
“These people must be fetched and arrested. The government of Niger State must insist that the Commissioner of Police should produce those who committed this evil. And let the people see that justice is done,” Rev. Hayab declared.
He lamented that perpetrators of similar acts in different parts of Nigeria are hardly brought to book, creating room for impunity and recurring violence. According to him, firm action from the authorities would serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to take the law into their own hands.
The cleric emphasised the shared humanity of Nigerians, warning against religious fanaticism being used as a cover for violence. “Even if she was a Muslim, she was still a human being. We cannot allow our citizens to continue going through this kind of terrible, inhuman treatment because some people want to prove they love God more than others. All of us love God,” he said.
Rev. Hayab also faulted the religious indoctrination that fuels mob killings, stressing that genuine faith does not condone murder. “It is an indictment on religious leaders because our followers have not been taught well enough to understand that killing is wrong. Those who kill under the excuse of blasphemy have never truly faced justice,” he added.
He challenged the legality of such killings, pointing out that Nigerian laws do not permit individuals to carry out extra-judicial executions. “Where in our law did we allow someone to be killed because he or she said something negative about your faith? That should not be accepted in a civilised society,” he queried.
Northern CAN called for a two-pronged approach to end the menace: religious leaders must intensify teachings on tolerance, while the government must enforce the law without fear or favour. Rev. Hayab further warned against pressure from interest groups to shield suspects from justice, urging the authorities to pursue this case to a logical conclusion.
“This one should not be swept under the carpet like previous cases. The perpetrators must be arrested, prosecuted and punished to serve as an example,” he insisted.
The killing of Ammaye has continued to spark outrage across the country, with many describing it as a dangerous setback for peaceful coexistence and respect for the rule of law.
