NGO Condemns Killing of Deborah Samuel on Alleged Blasphemy, Calls for Prosecution of Suspects

By Our Reporter

A non-governmental organization Christian Foundation for Social Justice and Equity, CFSJE, has condemned the killing and burning of Deborah Samuel by Islamic fundamentalists in Shehu Shagari College of Education, Sokoto.

The organization said that the killing reflected the level of religious intolerance and weak government institutions in Sokoto state.

According to the Executive Chairman of the organization Comrade Joseph Sangosanya in a statement signed, such barbaric killing should never happen anywhere let alone in the ‘Seat of the Caliphate.’

He added that Islam is a religion of peace and the criminal elements killing in the name of Islam must be apprehended and brought to book.

The statement reads:

“The Christian Foundation for Social Justice and Equity condemned the gruesome murder of Deborah Samuel, a Christian female student of Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto over alleged blasphemy.

“This reflects the level of religious intolerance and weak institutions in Sokoto State. It is also an indication of the State’s lacking accountability. The failure of the State government to give directives and guidance to the police immediately after the incident shows the insensitivity of the State government.

“The Police as a matter of urgency should effect arrest and prosecution of these criminal gangsters. Such barbaric behavior will only reoccur if the criminals are not apprehended and brought to justice, because of the protection the criminal gangsters perceived to enjoy. This impunity has to stop!”

“The perpetrators should not be seen to enjoy protection from political leaders seeking elective offices as it might attract reprisal killings from other faith groups. Sokoto State government as a matter of urgency should issue a statement condemning this brutal, senseless extrajudicial execution in the name of religion. This fanaticism in the name of religion has to change. Islam is a religion of peace!” He concluded.