Nigerian Christian mother of five Rhoda Jatau has received the First Step Forum Shahbaz Bhatti Freedom Award in recognition of her commitment to religious freedom following her imprisonment over a social media post.
Jatau was arrested in Bauchi State in May 2022 after reportedly sharing a WhatsApp video condemning the mob killing of Deborah Yakubu, a Christian student who had been accused of blasphemy.
Her arrest led to a prolonged legal battle, during which she spent approximately 19 months in prison before being granted bail in December 2023.
In December 2024, Jatau was acquitted, bringing an end to the criminal proceedings against her.
Her experience drew attention to concerns about freedom of expression, religious liberty and the treatment of individuals accused of blasphemy in Nigeria.
At the award ceremony, Jatau reflected on the emotional pain of being separated from her five children while in detention.
“For over a year i did not see my children. i could only hear about them,” she said.
The award recognises her experience and commitment to religious freedom following a case that attracted concern from religious liberty advocates.
Her story highlights the personal and family consequences of prolonged imprisonment and the importance of protecting fundamental rights, including freedom of religion and expression.