Joseph Isangura
Mubarak Bala, a well-known atheist and former president of the Humanist Association of Nigeria, has been freed after spending more than four years in prison over charges related to blasphemy.
His arrest in 2020 followed a Facebook post that authorities in northern Nigeria deemed offensive to religious beliefs.
The 40-year-old was convicted on 18 counts of contempt for religion and pleaded guilty to the charges in a Kano court, a city known for its predominantly Muslim population. His detention drew widespread attention and sparked global condemnation from human rights groups, which argued that his imprisonment was a direct assault on free expression.
Upon his release, Bala was moved to a safe house to protect him from potential harm. His lawyers voiced serious concerns about his safety, cautioning that returning to normal life without proper protection could put him at risk of violence or persecution.
Bala’s outspoken views on religion, shared frequently on social media, often challenged deeply held beliefs in a society where faith is central to daily life. While he gained support from secular and humanist communities worldwide, his criticism of religion also made him a target of widespread disapproval in Nigeria, a country with a delicate balance of religious diversity.
In April 2020, his online posts led a group of lawyers in Kano to file complaints with the police, resulting in his arrest. Human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Humanists International campaigned for his release, labeling the charges against him as unjust and calling for greater protection of free speech in Nigeria.
During his trial, Bala reportedly pleaded guilty to the charges to avoid a prolonged legal battle and reduce his sentence. Despite his conviction, activists continued to advocate for him, pointing out that the Nigerian constitution guarantees freedom of expression and belief.
Also Read; Earthquake strikes Tibet, killing dozens
His release comes at a time when discussions around freedom of speech, human rights, and religious tolerance are gaining momentum in Nigeria. Critics argue that cases like Bala’s expose the fragile line between respecting religious beliefs and upholding individual rights in a country where accusations of blasphemy can provoke widespread outrage.
Since gaining his freedom, Bala has remained out of the public eye, prioritizing his safety. His legal team continues to work to ensure he can live without fear of harm. “His life is in significant danger if he reenters public spaces without adequate protection,” one of his lawyers said.
Blasphemy accusations, particularly in northern states governed by Sharia law, carry severe penalties, including death sentences. Bala’s case has reignited debates about Nigeria’s commitment to upholding human rights and protecting individuals who dissent from mainstream religious beliefs.
