In a case that raises significant concerns over increased religious restrictions in Nigeria and the relating legal implications, a Christian woman has been sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment for sharing her faith with a Muslim. The accused was convicted under Section 210 of Borno State's penal code, a provision intended to prevent the unlawful removal of a child from parental custody. In this case, however, all those involved are adults.
Liyatu Samuel Dawa is the wife of evangelist Amos Suleman, both of whom are from the Gwoza area of Borno State, an epicentre of Boko Haram insurgency. Due to militant violence and other forms of persecution, the Christian population within this region has fallen from approximately 30 percent to less than five percent during recent years. Borno State also happens to be one of the 12 Muslim-majority jurisdictions in Nigeria that have implemented Sharia law. However, because Liyatu is a Christian, Nigerian law stipulates that a Sharia court has no jurisdiction over her, raising serious questions about the legality of the proceedings.
During the court hearing, Liyatu testified that she only offered spiritual guidance to the adult Muslim woman who had voluntarily chosen to convert to Christianity. (The new convert confirmed that her decision to follow Christ was made freely and without any coercion.) As a result, an appeal is being prepared on the grounds that the law was misapplied and that the ruling violates Nigeria's national constitution, which guarantees the freedom to change one's religion.
Liyatu's husband, Amos, who is currently in hiding after receiving death threats from local militants, had also been briefly detained in connection with the case before being released. Due to the ongoing threats against him, it's unsafe for Amos to visit his imprisoned wife. To review previously published Persecution & Prayer Alerts reporting on other incidents of persecution in Nigeria, go to our country profile.
- Pray that along with receiving God's divine protection, peace, strength and encouragement, Liyatu and her legal representatives will sense His guidance throughout the appeal process – in hopes that justice will ultimately prevail in her case.
- Additionally, please prayerfully uphold Liyatu's husband, Amos, as well as other believers who have been affected by this case (including the former Muslim woman who decided to place her faith in Christ), asking the Lord to also provide these committed Christians needed protection and courage.
- Pray that followers of Christ living in Muslim-majority areas of Nigeria will not only be granted safety and security, but also the freedom to share the hope of Christ without any risk of threats, violence or legal repercussions.
Population
