More shocking details have emerged about the mob killing of a young woman in Niger State over alleged blasphemy.

The Niger State Police Command confirmed that the victim, identified simply as Ammaye, was lynched and set ablaze by angry youths in Mariga Local Government Area on Saturday.

According to the police spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, the tragic incident took place around 2 pm at Kasuwan Garba. He explained that the lady, a well-known food seller, allegedly made remarks considered offensive to the Islamic faith during a heated exchange with a young man said to be her nephew.

Eyewitnesses told reporters that the young man had jokingly said he wanted to marry her “to fulfil the Sunnah,” but Ammaye’s response was deemed blasphemous. Her comments quickly stirred outrage among some youths in the community.

The matter was first taken before the District Head of Kasuwan Garba, where she was interrogated. Reports indicate that she repeated her earlier comments, after which the traditional leader handed her over to security operatives.

However, before she could be taken away for further investigation, an angry mob overpowered the operatives. The crowd dragged her out, stoned her, and later set her body on fire.

Abiodun described the killing as unfortunate, stressing that jungle justice is unacceptable. He said the police had since restored calm in the area and assured that investigations were ongoing to track down those responsible.

“The Command strongly condemns the act of jungle justice and urges residents to allow the law to take its course. Efforts are underway to arrest and prosecute all those involved,” he said.

Chairman of Mariga Local Government, Abbas Adamu, also confirmed the incident and noted that peace had been restored after the violent outbreak.