Womens Economic Rights> UPDATE ON STONING BY DEATH

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Dear Networkers,


SAFIYA PLEADS FOR LIFE 
published by Guardian of 6th December, 2001
                by
        Francis Obinor

Safiya Useni, convicted to die by stoning for alleged adultery by a Sharia 
Court in Sokoto, has pleaded to be spare the glory end to life, according to 
the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).  A BBC correspondent who visited 
the embattled young mother in Sokoto said the man who had put her in the family 
way out of wedlock actually raped and assaulted her in the process.  She 
therefore pleaded for justice, which she added, is currently skewed against her 
by the Sharia rule.

The  report said Safiya has outgrown her age having suffered so much trauma 
over having her fate in the hands of people.  Now back to her family compound 
in her village near Sokoto, she is seeking fairness and justice in the whole 
affair.  Though there are ample chances of her escaping the punishment, 
especially with the strong backing of the Federal Government coupled with the 
outcry of civil rights organisations, Safiya was full of gratitude to the 
media, individuals and organisations which have come to her aid.

On the baby, the nursing mother said she wanted the best education, and 
exposure - which she did not have - for the child.  Safiya also hinted that she 
would live to see the child married off after attaining the age.  She alleged 
that the man who put her in the situation was initially charged alongside her 
but was discharged and acquitted because he had money to buy his way out.  He 
was reported to have disappeared.

Safiya wondered why she was not equally set free, saying there was no reason at 
all why she should face the ordeal alone.  Earlier, Safiya's mother who spoke 
to the BBC in Hausa  said she wanted justice and equity before the law.  
According to her, Safiya was merely being punished for what was not her doing.  
She explained that she knew about the relationship when her daughter told her 
but was surprised how events had turned against her.  Pleading that her 
innocent daughter be spared, she wondered what would become of the child should 
the sentence be carried out. 

NOGI IMOUKHUEDE