A Christian mother of five is rejoicing after a Nigerian court fully acquitted her of all blasphemy charges, bringing an end to an ordeal that lasted more than two and a half years. Rhoda Jatau, who had been arrested in May 2022 for sharing a WhatsApp video condemning the brutal lynching of a Christian university student, is now free to reunite with her family and rebuild her life.
Jatau’s case drew international attention after she was accused of causing a public disturbance and insulting religion under Bauchi State’s Penal Code. The charges stemmed from her sharing of a video that criticized the horrific mob killing of Deborah Emmanuel Yakubu, a Nigerian student murdered by classmates for expressing her Christian faith. Yakubu’s death ignited global outrage and spotlighted the severe risks faced by religious minorities in Nigeria.
During her 19-month imprisonment, Jatau endured harsh conditions, was repeatedly denied bail, and faced limited access to her family and legal counsel. Despite the hardships, she remained steadfast in her faith, leaning on prayer and support from her Christian community. Her release on bail in December 2023 marked the beginning of a hopeful turn in her legal battle.
In October 2023, international pressure mounted when United Nations experts issued a joint allegation letter to the Nigerian government. The letter condemned blasphemy laws as a violation of international human rights and specifically called for Jatau’s release. The UN’s intervention amplified calls for justice and drew further scrutiny to Nigeria’s treatment of religious minorities.
Sean Nelson, legal counsel for ADF International, celebrated the court’s decision to fully acquit Jatau. “We are thankful to God for Rhoda’s full acquittal and an end to the ordeal she has endured for far too long,” he said. “No person should be punished for peaceful expression, and we are grateful that Rhoda Jatau has been fully acquitted. But Rhoda should never have been arrested in the first place.”
ADF International’s allied Nigerian lawyer, who led Jatau’s defense, also expressed gratitude. “After a two-and-a-half-year ordeal, including 19 long months in prison, we are happy that Rhoda finally has been acquitted of any wrongdoing. We thank all who have been praying for Rhoda, and we ask for your continued prayers as Nigerians continue to push back against persecution.”
Jatau’s case has underscored the deep challenges faced by Nigeria’s religious minorities. Yakubu’s killing, which sparked the video Jatau shared, exemplifies the widespread violence and discrimination against Christians in the country—especially in its northern regions. According to Open Doors, Nigeria ranked sixth in 2022 on the list of countries where Christians face the most severe persecution. That same year, over 5,500 Christians were killed for their faith globally, with 90% of those killings occurring in Nigeria.
Religious freedom advocates argue that cases like Jatau’s highlight the urgent need to repeal blasphemy laws in Nigeria. These laws have been criticized as tools for silencing dissent and oppressing religious minorities, often with little regard for due process. “The existence of blasphemy laws perpetuates a climate of fear and discrimination,” said Nelson. “They must be abolished if we are to see true freedom of religion and belief in Nigeria.”
Jatau’s acquittal is a significant victory, but it also raises broader questions about the state of justice and human rights in Nigeria. Advocates warn that her case is not isolated and that many others remain imprisoned or face violent persecution for their faith. “This is a battle far from over,” said a representative from the Christian Association of Nigeria. “Rhoda’s freedom is a beacon of hope, but it also reminds us of the work that remains.”
For Jatau and her family, the acquittal marks a new chapter filled with gratitude and healing. Local churches and Christian organizations are rallying to support her transition back to normal life. “Her faith and courage throughout this ordeal are an inspiration to us all,” said her pastor. “We thank God for her release and will continue to stand with her in prayer.”
The international community’s involvement in Jatau’s case has set a precedent for greater accountability in Nigeria. Observers hope that the global attention her case garnered will lead to systemic changes and better protections for religious minorities. “This is a moment of hope, but it must also be a moment of action,” said a human rights advocate. “We must ensure that no one else endures what Rhoda endured.”
As Jatau celebrates her newfound freedom, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of faith in the face of persecution. Her journey from imprisonment to acquittal is a testament to the strength of prayer, advocacy, and the enduring hope for justice in a troubled world. Christians around the globe are celebrating this victory as a step forward in the fight for religious freedom.
“This isn’t just Rhoda’s victory,” said Nelson. “It’s a victory for all who believe in the fundamental right to freedom of expression and religion. And it’s a call to continue standing up for those who are persecuted.”
Kevin Parker 
Terry Littlepage