Zainab Muhamadu, a 22-year-old woman from Zamfara State, is facing possible death penalty after reportedly converting from Islam to Christianity.
Sources close to her family say Zainab’s journey began after meeting Pastor Samuel, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member posted to her community. The two bonded over shared values, and through his influence, she embraced Christianity.
Her conversion soon became known, leading to her arrest by local authorities. Zainab is now set to appear before a Sharia court this Friday, where she could be sentenced to d+ath for apostasy — the act of renouncing Islam.
Legal experts and human rights advocates argue that this violates Nigeria’s constitution, which guarantees the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. “This is a defining moment,” said one lawyer. “Zainab’s case tests whether we truly respect the right to choose one’s faith.”
There are growing fears that she may not receive a fair trial in a state where Islamic law heavily influences the judiciary. Her legal team is exploring options to move the case to a secular court, arguing that as a Christian, she should not be tried under Sharia law.
Pastor Samuel, who is believed to be emotionally and spiritually distressed by the situation, is also being urged to receive protection amid rising tensions.
Christian communities across Nigeria are calling for urgent prayers and advocacy, demanding that authorities uphold the constitutional right to religious freedom.
