Woman Lynched, Burnt Alive in Niger State Over Alleged Blasphemy

A woman identified as Amaye, a food vendor in Kasuwan-Garba, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, was lynched and burnt to death by a mob on Saturday evening over allegations of blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad. Witnesses said the incident began after a customer at her restaurant jokingly expressed interest in marrying her, referencing the Prophet’s tradition, to which she allegedly responded with remarks considered offensive.

Sources revealed that Amaye was initially taken to the palace of the District Head, who handed her over to security operatives for investigation. However, before any inquiry could be concluded, an irate crowd overpowered the security personnel and killed her.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Mariga LGA, Abbas Adamu Kasuwan-Garba, said calm had been restored to the community. The Niger State Police Command also acknowledged the killing. Spokesperson SP Wasiu Abiodun stated that reports of the alleged comments were received on August 30 around 2 p.m., after which the mob descended on the woman and set her ablaze before security reinforcements arrived. He added that efforts were underway to identify and arrest those responsible for the attack, with investigations to follow.