The Independent United Nations (UN) human rights experts, have condemned the death sentence of singer Yahaya Sharif-Aminu.
Eelive.ng had reported that Sharif-Aminu was sentenced to death in Kano for blasphemy.
He was found guilty of a song he recorded and released, which critics said it’s blasphemous.
Reacting to the death sentence, in a statement, the UN experts called for the overturning of the court ruling.
The international body also urged President Muhammadu Buhari-led government to guarantee Sharif-Aminu’s safety, and allow due process rights while he appeals his conviction.
Amongst other things, the body condemned the convict’s lack of access to a lawyer during his initial trial, and the initial blockade of access to a lawyer to help him file an appeal within the stipulated time.
“Artistic expression of opinion and beliefs, through songs or other media – including those seen to offend religious sensibilities – is protected in accordance with international law.
“The criminalisation of these expressions is unlawful. Music is not a crime,” the experts said.
Meanwhile, revered music executive, Efe Omorogbe has signed a petition on behalf of The Nigerian Music Industry Collective which consists of Juju music legend, Ebenezer Obey, music executive Audu Maikori, film director Dare Fasasi, founder and CEO of Storm 360 Obi Asika, amongst others, calling for a redress of the death sentence.