Ibrahim Magazu's village headman would not permit this reporter to interview her, her parents, or her neighbors, but insisted the punishment requirements were met. Muslim leaders argue that amputations are similarly misunderstood. Amputation is reserved for only the most egregious theft cases. Since sharia law was brought back to Zamfara in January 2000, only one criminal has received the punishment. Traders in the market use specially marked measurement cups approved by the government to prevent cheating.
Women use female-only taxis to get around town.
And everyone is supposed to dress modestly. A day of hearings in Judge Shitu's three-room courthouse is hardly shocking. One woman explains she doesn't love her husband any longer. The husband, clearly disappointed, says he wants to remain married but won't object if she really wants the divorce. The judge grants the divorce on the spot.