The Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has commended the Zamfara State government for swiftly clarifying allegations of the forceful conversion of a woman to Christianity.

The association also called for vigilance and collaboration on religious matters. In a statement issued yesterday, the Chairman and General Secretary, Reverend Joseph Hayab and Bishop Muhammed Naga, applauded the state government’s prompt response to concerns about the alleged arraignment of Zainab Muhamadu before a Sharia Court over the religious conversion.

The leaders acknowledged the public clarification issued by the Zamfara State government, which debunked the reports and confirmed that no such case currently exists before any Sharia Court in the state.

They further explained that statements from the Grand Khadi, as well as contributions from the Director-General of Hisbah and various security agencies, had helped to ease tensions and provide clarity on an issue that could have escalated into a national crisis.

“While we welcome this clarification, we emphasise that should any credible information surface in the future, it must be treated with the same level of urgency, transparency, and accountability,” the statement noted.

Hayab stressed: “For now, based on the assurances provided by the Zamfara State government and the stated confirmation that no crime has been committed for exercising the right to freedom of religion, Christians across the country should take note that no arraignment involving Miss Zainab is currently underway. This, for now, puts the matter to rest, unless and until verified facts indicate otherwise.”