The Zamfara State Government has strongly refuted reports claiming that a young woman, Zainab Muhamadu, is facing a death sentence in a Sharia Court for converting to Christianity.
In a press statement issued on May 20, 2025, by Sulaiman Bala Idris, spokesperson to the Zamfara State Governor, the government described the story as false, misleading, and fabricated by online platforms seeking to sow discord and gain traffic.
“The attention of the Zamfara State Government has been drawn to mischievous fake news circulating about a 22-year-old Miss Zainab Muhamadu, who is facing the death penalty for converting to Christianity,” the statement read.
“We want to categorically state that it is the handiwork of enemies of peace, who are hellbent on creating a tension where there is none,” it added.
The government said it had conducted thorough checks with relevant authorities and security agencies, including the Grand Khadi of the Zamfara Sharia Court of Appeal, and confirmed that “there has never been such a case before any Shari’a court in Zamfara State.”
The statement also took aim at Sahara Reporters, accusing the media outlet of fabricating the report. “The fake news, which was spread on social media by an online platform notorious for circulating unverified stories and falsehoods, is nothing more than a failed attempt to disrupt peace,” it said.
“The woman whose picture was used in the fake news is not Nigerian. Her name is Aalia, and she is from Texas, United States,” the statement revealed.
The government raised concerns over the increasing trend of social media misinformation, noting: “We are living in intriguing times. Media platforms that should provide the public with verified stories are becoming complacent, merely copying and pasting content from social media accounts eager for likes and comments.”
It further questioned the motives behind the publication, stating: “The question is, where does this perilous and divisive narrative originate? What are its underlying motives? What do those promoting this story hope to accomplish in the long run?”
Describing the development as a case of yellow journalism, the government called for an investigation to trace the source of the story and hold those responsible accountable.
“We urge the relevant security agencies to investigate the source of this fake, misguided story, which seeks to create significant religious tension, and prosecute anyone found responsible. We must all do our part to ensure the peace of this country,” the statement concluded.
