Mubarak Bala, a prominent Nigerian and humanist leader, endured a harrowing journey through the country's justice system after being accused of blasphemy. Born in Kano in 1984, Bala's life took a dramatic turn when Shariah law was implemented in the state at the age of 16. The formation of an Islamic police force, known as the Hisbah, marked a significant shift in the region's legal landscape.
In April 2020, Bala was arrested at his home in Kaduna state following allegations that he had posted articles deemed offensive to Muslims. Despite no evidence supporting the accusations, he was detained for over a year without access to his family or legal representation. During his incarceration, Bala received numerous death threats from religious extremists.
Bala's case sparked international outrage and highlighted broader issues of freedom of speech and human rights in Nigeria. While blasphemy is not a crime, the Nigerian government imposes capital punishment for such offenses, and freedom of speech, particularly when critical of the government, is often met with severe consequences.
Despite months of advocacy and legal battles, Bala remained imprisoned, facing an unjust sentence of 24 years for causing public disturbance. International organizations, including the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, condemned the ruling, citing violations of Bala's fundamental rights.
In a heartfelt letter from prison, Bala shed light on the injustices rampant within the Nigerian justice system. He called for reform and pleaded for his release, expressing hope for a brighter future where justice prevails.
“In Kano's detention, surrounded by threats and despair, I saw the injustices plaguing our nation firsthand. From children wrongly accused of terrorism to veterans abandoned, the system fails the very people it should protect. Though falsely convicted, I pleaded guilty to escape the daily fear and seek medical attention. My sentence, far harsher than that of actual criminals, exposes the corruption at its core."
"Witnessing the release of terrorists while innocent officers languish, I lost hope in the current system. But hope for humanity endures. I yearn to return to my family, contribute to society, and further my education. My voice seeks not just freedom, but a call for change: release the wrongly accused, offer amnesty to the deserving, and fight for a fairer future."
Injustice Is Real (IIR) urges the Nigerian government to break the cycle of injustice by granting Bala clemency and addressing systemic flaws in the justice system. His case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to speak out against injustice. It also represents countless others who suffer from human rights abuses, and his release would symbolize a step toward a more just society. Let his story inspire change and pave the way for a Nigeria where justice prevails.
#FreeMubarakBala #InjusticeInNigeria #DemandChange #JusticeForNigeria #EndInjustice #AccountabilityNow #TransparencyMatters #SpeakUpNigeria #FightForRights #NigeriaOnTheBrink #StandAgainstInjustice #TogetherForJustice #InjusticeIsReal
12th February, 2024
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