On account of interventions by the civil society, Christian Association of Nigeria, the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council and the Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria, Rhoda Jatau a mother of five who condemned the alleged killing of Samuel Deborah in Sokoto State, regained her freedom after 18 horrendous months in prison.
But what was the offence of this ordinary Nigerian citizen who serves as a health care worker in Bauchi state? Many opine that a rich woman would have been able to higher a dozen Senior Advocates of Nigeria to challenge her detention without trial and claim damages for her.
After all a Federal High Court in Abuja has just awarded N500 million damages to Murtala Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) candidate in the November 11 governorship election in the state; payable by the Kogi State Government for violation of his fundamental rights. Although he was never detained for a day.
And so while many in Nigeria rejoice over the release of Mrs. Jatau, thankful to God and all those who were instrumental to her release, several ask: “Who pays for all she went through for 18 months? What of her mental state? 18 months are not 18 hours.”
Veteran lawyer and activist Julie Odigie- Oyegun bared her thoughts
“Finally AND Swiftly in the same breath with 18 months intervening!
Bail conditions undisclosed.
Compensation for detention unmentioned.
Prosecution of a Christian by Sharia court unquestioned.
State of health — mental and physical — unknown.
The good news is that Rhoda is back home with her family.
But by no means is this outrage over.
Not till Rhoda gets the justice that — so far — has eluded the late martyr Deborah of blessed memory whose assailants when arraigned were promptly represented in court by 34 lawyers.
