PRESS RELEASE : 16th MAY 2022
On Thursday 12th May 2022, some Muslim students of Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto State, North-West Nigeria killed and burnt their fellow student, Deborah Samuel, over an alleged blasphemy of Prophet Mohammed.
Deborah was killed because of her request that a certain WhatsApp group created for academic discussion should not be used for religious conversation.
Just as we frown against debasing words against other religions and their adherents, we condemn totally the inhumane assault and killing of the young girl by some religious fanatics. The most contemptible of the incident was the helplessness of the security agencies while the attack took place.
Religious violence has claimed the lives of many Nigerians and has negatively impacted her development. While the nation is still struggling with the activities of the proscribed armed group called ‘Boko Haram’, Nigeria cannot afford another round of religiously-motivated violence.
We join other well-meaning Nigerians to call on both the Sokoto state government and Federal Government to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the killing of Deborah and ensure that those responsible for the lynching and burning of the young lady are brought to face the wrath of the law.
We use this opportunity to call on religious organizations and leaders to structure their teachings towards tolerance, social cohesion, and stability and educate their followers on the essence of humanity. Various organs of Government must live up to their responsibility of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the protection of lives and properties. Young people must remain calm and ensure that they do not take laws into their hands.
Building Blocks for Peace Foundation is a non-governmental organization working on Conflict Prevention, Prevention of Violent Extremism, Peacebuilding, and Sustainable Development in Nigeria.
Thank you.
Rafiu Lawal
Executive Director
Building Blocks for Peace Foundation