Mubarak Bala, a prominent Nigerian atheist and human rights advocate, has been released from prison after spending more than four years behind bars on charges related to “blasphemy.” His case drew international attention and sparked debates on freedom of speech and human rights in Nigeria.
Bala, who served as the President of the Nigerian Humanist Association, was first arrested in April 2020 after posting comments on Facebook that were considered blasphemous by some members of the public. The posts, deemed likely to cause public disturbance, led to his conviction in 2022 by the High Court in Kano on 18 counts of “causing a public disturbance” under the Kano Penal Code. He was initially sentenced to 24 years in prison.
Bala’s case was fraught with controversies, including allegations of procedural irregularities. He was detained for over a year without formal charges, denied access to his lawyers, family, and medical care for extended periods, and faced repeated delays in his trial. Despite an Abuja High Court ruling that granted him bail, authorities in Kano State ignored the decision. Ultimately, Bala pleaded guilty to all charges, reportedly under duress.
In May 2023, the Court of Appeal drastically reduced his sentence from 24 years to five, stating that the original sentence was excessive and contrary to legal standards. Following this decision, Bala’s release has finally been secured, marking the end of a long and grueling ordeal.
Speaking to BBC Africa after his release, Bala recounted his time in prison, saying, “I never thought I may get out of prison alive.” His reflections shed light on the difficult conditions he endured during his incarceration, as well as his unwavering commitment to his beliefs despite the challenges.
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Bala’s imprisonment and subsequent release have reignited conversations about the balance between freedom of expression and religious sensitivities in Nigeria. Advocates for human rights have called for reforms to ensure that cases like Bala’s are handled fairly and in accordance with international human rights standards.For more details about Mubarak Bala’s story and to hear his personal reflections, you can watch his full interview on BBC Africa here.
