Amnesty International Demands Immediate Release of Kano Musician Sentenced to Death for Blasphemy

Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen

Amnesty International has renewed its call for the Nigerian government to free Aminu Yahaya-Shariff, a young musician sentenced to death by a Kano court in 2020 over alleged blasphemy. The global rights organisation says the case exposes deep concerns about freedom of expression, due process, and the deteriorating health of the detainee.

Yahaya-Shariff was just 22 years old when he was convicted on August 10, 2020, after what Amnesty describes as an unfair trial based on “bogus charges.” His ordeal began in March 2020 when he shared a song via WhatsApp, triggering outrage from a mob that later burned down his family home.

Amnesty International reports that the singer has been held in detention for over four years under harsh conditions. During a visit in March 2024, officials found him in poor health, struggling with severe asthma and dependent on an inhaler and other medications. A follow-up visit in November 2024 showed some improvement as he received medication, but he still needs regular and uninterrupted access to treatment to remain stable.

The organisation insists that there is no legal or moral justification for keeping the young musician behind bars. It is calling on authorities to immediately quash the charges and release him without conditions. According to Amnesty, Yahaya-Shariff’s case highlights the continued misuse of blasphemy laws and the danger faced by individuals whose artistic or religious opinions differ from dominant views.

Reiterating its stance, Amnesty International urged the Nigerian government to respect fundamental human rights and ensure justice. It stressed that Aminu must be freed without delay, insisting he deserves “immediate and unconditional release.”

The case continues to draw national and international attention as pressure mounts on Kano and federal authorities to review the conviction and end the prolonged detention of the embattled musician.

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