A young woman identified as Zainab, a recent convert to Christianity in Zamfara State, is scheduled to appear before a Sharia court this Friday to face trial over her decision to leave Islam.
Zainab, whose full name is being withheld for her safety, reportedly converted to Christianity earlier this year—a decision that has sparked controversy in her predominantly Muslim community. According to local sources, she has been in custody since early May after community leaders reported her to religious authorities.
The case has drawn concern from human rights organizations and constitutional lawyers who argue that prosecuting Zainab for religious conversion is a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion and the right to change one's faith.
“This case represents a serious challenge to Nigeria’s commitment to religious freedom and human rights,” said Dr. Amina Okoro, a legal analyst and advocate for religious liberty. “While Sharia law is recognized in some northern states, it cannot override constitutional protections afforded to all Nigerian citizens.”