…as HELP, NHRC provide support to the son of the deceased
By Frank Ulom
MINA (CONVERSEER) – A woman identified as Ammaye has been gruesomely murdered by an Islamic mob for alleged blasphemy in Niger State, Central Nigeria.
According to a report by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) State Coordinator, Nuhu Mohammed, the tragic incident occurred on 29 August 2025, in Kasuwan-Garba town, Mariga Local Government Area.
Mohammed said Ammaye, a 65-year-old widow and food vendor originally from Katsina State, was attacked by a mob after allegedly making blasphemous remarks about Prophet Muhammad during a conversation with a customer.
“The altercation began when a young man jokingly expressed interest in marrying Ammaye, citing the tradition of the Prophet (Sunnah). Her response allegedly provoked the mob, which accused her of blasphemy. Despite attempts by security personnel to protect her, the mob overpowered them, stoned Ammaye to death, and set her body ablaze,” Mohammed stated.
He revealed that while the Niger State Police Command confirmed the incident, no arrests have been made since the crime occurred. “The police had assured that efforts were ongoing to identify and prosecute those involved. However, up till now, no one has been arrested, and normalcy has returned to the community,” he added.
The NHRC also confirmed its engagement with the police and the victim’s son, Abdullahi, who expressed disappointment over the lack of progress.
“Abdullahi, the only surviving son of the deceased, confirmed that his mother had lived in the area for over forty years. He said he has left everything for Allah to judge and will move on with his life in peace,” the report noted.
In the absence of justice, Humanist Enabling Life Project (HELP) stepped in to provide humanitarian assistance to the victim’s family.
Mohammed said that on 13 October, he visited Kasuwan-Garba in collaboration with HELP, after the organisation provided ₦120,000 to cover travel expenses and financial support for Abdullahi.
“Abdullahi expressed deep appreciation to HELP for the kind gesture and to the NHRC for facilitating the visit and showing concern,” the report stated.
The Director of HELP, Leo Igwe, described the killing as another example of how religious extremism continues to endanger lives and weaken justice in Nigeria.
Igwe emphasised that victims of blasphemy accusations and mob killings deserve care, protection, and support rooted in humanist values.
He said HELP remains committed to supporting victims of religious violence and promoting empathy and reason in dealing with such cases.
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