This is a photo of Deborah Yakubu. She was a Christian student at the Shehu Shagari College of Education in Sokoto, Nigeria.
A mob of her own classmates brutally stoned her—then set Deborah on fire for posting her thanks to God after she finished her exams. A video of the violent act went viral.
Rhoda Jatau, like millions of Nigerians and others around the world, was understandably horrified. She shared a video condemning the brutal attack on Deborah through WhatsApp.
Then, Rhoda was charged with blasphemy, a crime under the law in northern Nigeria. A mob ransacked her neighborhood, demanding her arrest.
She was arrested and imprisoned with limited access to legal support and infrequent contact with her family, including her five children. It took 19 months to secure Rhoda’s release on bail, and even then, she still faced up to five years in prison if convicted, as her trial continued.
Just a few weeks ago, on December 10, 2024, the court ruled in Rhoda’s favor, finding her not guilty of any charges. However, this conclusion came after a grueling two-and-a-half years of legal battles and months of separation from her family.
Here’s a photo of Rhoda:
These two accounts of Christians propel me to ask God to put steel into my relationship with Him. My heart’s desire is to serve Him with a “no turning back—whatever the cost” attitude.
“Preach the Word of God urgently at all times, whenever you get the chance, in season and out, when it is convenient and when it is not.”
(2 Timothy 4:2 LB)
Will you join me in this prayer?
You are loved!
Susie
