The International Association for Religious Freedom urges its members and supporters worldwide to stand in solidarity with Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, a 23-year-old Nigerian singer facing the gravest of injustices. Sharif-Aminu has been sentenced to death for sharing a song via WhatsApp, an act deemed blasphemous by Nigerian authorities. This severe punishment raises serious questions about the fairness of his trial and the nature of the charges against him.
The IARF firmly denounces the use of capital punishment as inhumane and stands against blasphemy laws, particularly those that lead to severe prosecution and punishment. Such laws and their application are a direct violation of human rights and are contrary to the principles of freedom of expression and belief. The case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu is a distressing example of the actions taken by authorities under the guise of blasphemy laws.
The IARF supports Amnesty International’s campaign to secure Yahaya Sharif-Aminu’s release and echoes the call for action. Public pressure has previously led to the release of individuals from death row in Nigeria, demonstrating the power of global solidarity.
We call upon our members and supporters to lend their voices to this cause. The action of the Nigerian authorities in this case is not only a violation of human rights but also an affront to the values of freedom and dignity that the IARF upholds. Together, we hope to see a successful outcome to Amnesty International’s efforts to save Yahaya Sharif-Aminu’s life and restore his freedom.
Your support can make a difference. Stand with us in calling for justice and human dignity.
