Toba Owojaiye reporting
Bauchi, Bauchi State
Rhoda Jatau, a Bauchi woman imprisoned for 18 months, has regained her freedom after condemning the alleged killing of Samuel Deborah in Sokoto State. The Christian Association of Nigeria, Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, and Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria intervened, leading to her release on bail last Friday, according to a reliable source.
Truth Live News gathered that Jatau, a mother of five, was detained since May 2022 for blasphemy, sharing a video denouncing the lynching of 200-level student Deborah from Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto. Deborah was brutally murdered for advising against sharing religious materials on a WhatsApp page.
While details about bail conditions and the granting court remain undisclosed, the Inter-Religious Council played a pivotal role in securing her release. The Christian community in Nigeria expressed concern, prompting swift interventions by influential religious bodies.
The Christian Association of Nigeria stated, “We are pleased to report that Mrs. Rhoda has been granted bail and subsequently released from detention today. We have high hopes that the case will end in praise. Let’s continue to uphold her in our prayers.”
The anonymous source emphasized the leadership of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council, acknowledging their key role in the resolution of Jatau’s case.
The incident highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and religious sensitivities, prompting widespread calls for justice and fairness, especially in Nigeria.