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Christian woman assaulted by three Muslim boys in Kogi State for not wearing a headscarf during Ramadan receives justice.

After weeks of tension following an attack on a Christian lady by three Muslim boys who beat her for not wearing a headtie during Ramadan, peace has returned to Anyigba town in Kogi State.

Victoria David, the victim, has finally achieved justice thanks to the intervention of traditional rulers, religious leaders, and security agencies to resolve the issue. Images from the peace meeting convened between the families have now surfaced, depicting both sides uniting to resolve the crisis.

One of the attackers had even uploaded a video online that verified the assault and provided justifications for their actions. He stated in the video that they had cautioned individuals against dressing inappropriately during Ramadan, which resulted in the beating.

The peace meeting gathered all the key parties in the community.

Ogohi Shaibu Okolo, the Royal Father, made a courageous move by expressing an apology to the victim’s family on behalf of Anyigba town and the Muslim community. His decision to offer a personal apology helped ease tensions and demonstrated leadership during a challenging time.

The Chief Imam of Anyigba also offered a heartfelt apology regarding the actions of the attackers. He did not justify the boys’ actions; rather, he condemned them and sought forgiveness from Victoria and her family.

At the meeting, the Imam of Agbeji introduced one of the boys, probably the one who posted the video online claiming they had cautioned people against inappropriate dressing during Ramadan. He also provided explanations for their assault on the girl.

However, during the peace meeting, the boy altered his account. He asserted that it was merely content and that they did not intend serious harm. He was, however, issued serious warnings and measures were taken to ensure that such behavior does not recur.

The security agents at the meeting called for peace and urged both families to release any bitterness. Other stakeholders also addressed the audience, urging for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence in Anyigba and elsewhere.

In a demonstration of maturity and grace, Victoria, the victim, along with her family, has forgiven the boys and embraced the opportunity for peace. They consented to release the issue and permit the community to advance.

Their choice to grant forgiveness instead of pursuing vengeance has garnered widespread acclaim, as it aided in averting a potential serious religious crisis in the region.

We express our gratitude to all, particularly the Ogohi/Onu Anyigba and other stakeholders, for uniting to prevent a crisis. The swift reaction of community and religious leaders, along with the compassion demonstrated by Victoria and her family, spared the community from what might have been a major breakdown of peace.

As a university town, Anyigba is home to residents of various tribes and faiths coexisting together. This incident had the potential to divide the community, but wisdom prevailed.

This case provides us with a few lessons. To begin with, it is not acceptable for anyone to impose their religious convictions on others by means of violence. Though Ramadan is a time of prayer and fasting for Muslims, it does not grant anyone the right to assault those who do not observe it in the same manner.

Secondly, traditional institutions continue to play an important role in resolving disputes. The personal involvement of the Royal Father demonstrated that traditional rulers are important for peace maintenance.

Thirdly, the power of forgiveness is great. Rather than demanding vengeance, Victoria and her family opted for peace. Their choice enabled the community to heal rapidly.

It is essential for us Nigerians to coexist peacefully despite our differing religions. No religion advocates violence against those with differing beliefs. The peace we have today is delicate and needs to be safeguarded by everyone.

Victoria believes justice is achieved through reconciliation rather than punishment. At times, it is the most effective way of delivering justice.

Christian woman assaulted by three Muslim boys in Kogi State for not wearing a headscarf during Ramadan receives justice.

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