Resolution on continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu

The European Parliament adopted a resolution on continuing detention and risk of the death penalty for individuals in Nigeria charged with blasphemy, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu.

The text adopted in plenary was tabled by the EPP, S&D, ECR, Renew, Greens/EFA and the Left groups.

As a reminder, in August 2020, Nigerian singer Yahaya Sharif-Aminu was sentenced to death by a Sharia Court in Kano State for alleged blasphemy, following a trial without legal representation. In 2021, a retrial was ordered, and in 2022, the Court of Appeal upheld it while affirming the constitutionality of Sharia blasphemy laws, increasing the risk of a confirmed death sentence. His Supreme Court appeal, filed in 2022, remains pending, while he endures deteriorating prison conditions. Other Nigerians also remain imprisoned on blasphemy charges.

The European Parliament condemned the ongoing use of blasphemy laws in Nigeria, which violate international human rights obligations and the Nigerian Constitution. It expressed grave concern over the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, sentenced to death for alleged blasphemy, and urged the Nigerian authorities to ensure his immediate and unconditional release, access to medical care, and a fair appeal process.

The resolution called for the abolition of the death penalty and blasphemy laws; a nationwide moratorium on executions and stronger protections for freedom of expression and religious belief. It urged Nigeria to combat impunity surrounding blasphemy accusations and bringing perpetrators of mob violence to justice.

Lastly, Parliament called on Nigeria to uphold human rights throughout the country by ensuring that federal, state and Sharia laws do not deny Nigerians the protections afforded by the national constitution and international conventions.