Food vendor burnt to death over blasphemy in Niger

A woman identified as Amaye has been lynched and burnt to death by a mob in Niger State over alleged blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening in Kasuwan-Garba town, Mariga Local Government Area.

According to eyewitness accounts, the victim, a food vendor, was accused of making blasphemous remarks at her restaurant after a customer jokingly expressed interest in marrying her, citing the tradition of the Prophet.

Residents initially took her to the palace of the District Head of Kasuwan-Garba to avert mob action.

The District Head reportedly handed her over to security operatives for investigation.

However, the mob later overpowered the security agents and set her ablaze.

Chairman of Mariga LGA, Abbas Adamu Kasuwan-Garba, confirmed the incident, adding that normalcy had been restored in the area.

The Niger State Police Command also confirmed the killing.

Spokesman SP Wasiu Abiodun said the victim was burnt before security reinforcements arrived.

“Efforts are being made to ensure that arrests are effected, investigated and prosecuted,” Abiodun stated.