•Governor Dauda Lawal and Miss Zainab Muhammadu
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) of the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has commended the Zamfara State Government for clarifying the alleged arraignment of Miss Zainab Muhammadu before a Sharia Court in the state.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Rev Dr Joseph John Hayab, and Secretary-General, Bishop Mohammed Naga, today, CAN said it commended the Grand Khadi for responding promptly to the allegations, which trended on social media, confirming that no such case is currently pending in any court in the state.
While welcoming the government’s swift response, the association emphasised the importance of continued vigilance, urging that any credible information that emerges in the future regarding such actions must be treated with the highest level of urgency, transparency, and accountability.
“To Christians in the North and across Nigeria, we assure you that CAN remains steadfast in uncovering the truth wherever it is hidden. We will not relent in our efforts to expose and bring an end to all forms of religious persecution and harassment in the region,” the statement declared.
CAN commended the collaborative efforts of Zamfara’s security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth groups for their role in defusing tension and promoting peace amid the controversy.
The association appealed to Christians to remain calm, law-abiding, and prayerful while reaffirming its commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all Nigerians to freely practise their faith without fear or intimidation.
“While this clarification puts the matter to rest for now, we remain ready to act should verified facts suggest otherwise. CAN will continue to work closely with security agencies and relevant stakeholders to ensure that religious rights violations are swiftly addressed across the North,” the statement added.
