The Zamfara State Government has dismissed claims circulating online that a Christian woman named Zainab is scheduled to appear before a Sharia Court on Friday for converting from Islam to Christianity.
In a statement released by the spokesperson for the state governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the government described the report as entirely false and misleading. He stated that the story originated from social media platforms known for spreading unverified content to attract traffic.
The government further clarified that thorough investigations have confirmed that no such case exists in any Shari’ah Court within the state.
“The attention of the Zamfara State Government has been drawn to mischievous fake news circulating about a 22-year-old Miss Zainab Muhamadu, who is facing the death penalty for converting to Christianity.
“We want to categorically state that it is the handiwork of enemies of peace, who are hellbent on creating a tension where there is none.
“The fake news, which was spread on social media by an online platform notorious for circulating unverified stories and falsehoods, is nothing more than a failed attempt to disrupt peace.
“The Zamfara State Government has acted swiftly by summoning all relevant authorities and security agencies to verify the authenticity of the story, which ultimately proved to be a blatant falsehood created by Sahara Reporters.
“To ensure accountability and certainty, the state government has confirmed with the Grand Khadi of the Zamfara Sharia Court of Appeal regarding any similar cases. He stated that there has never been such a case before any Shari’a court in Zamfara State.
“The question is, where does this perilous and divisive narrative originate? What are its underlying motives? What do those promoting this story hope to accomplish in the long run?
“We are living in intriguing times. Media platforms that should provide the public with verified stories are becoming complacent, merely copying and pasting content from social media accounts eager for likes and comments.
“The woman whose picture was used in the fake news is not Nigerian. Her name is Aalia, and she is from Texas, United States.
“The Zamfara State Government believes it is essential to clarify that nothing of this nature is happening in the state. This situation exemplifies yellow journalism that we must all denounce.
“We urge the relevant security agencies to investigate the source of this fake, misguided story, which seeks to create significant religious tension, and prosecute anyone found responsible. We must all do our part to ensure the peace of this country.”
Meanwhile, many Nigerians have taken to social media, asserting that “there is no smoke without fire” and urging the media to closely monitor the situation as it develops.
