MINNA: A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday at Kasuwan Garba Market in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, where a woman identified as Amaye was lynched and set ablaze by a mob over alleged blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad.
According to eyewitness accounts, the violence erupted following a heated argument between Amaye, a local food vendor, and a man who had proposed marriage to her.
The man, believed to be a Muslim, reportedly demanded that certain Islamic rites be observed if she accepted. Amaye’s refusal allegedly sparked accusations of blasphemy, further inflaming tensions.
Witnesses said the victim was dragged before the district head for questioning. During the interrogation, she was accused of repeating the remarks considered offensive, which provoked outrage among youths at the scene.
Despite the presence of security operatives, the mob overpowered them, stoned the woman, and set her ablaze outside the palace.
Confirming the incident, Niger State Police spokesperson, SP Wasiu Abiodun, described the attack as a clear case of jungle justice.
“On 30/8/2025, at about 2 pm, we received a report that one Amaye of Kasuwan Garba, Mariga LGA, allegedly made comments against the Islamic Prophet. Unfortunately, she was attacked by a mob and set ablaze before security reinforcements arrived. No arrest has been made yet, he said.
Abiodun condemned the mob action, stressing that investigations had begun and that perpetrators would be prosecuted. He urged residents to remain calm, assuring that normalcy has been restored in the community.
The incident has renewed concerns over mob justice in northern Nigeria, where accusations of blasphemy have often triggered violent reactions.
