
The recent release of Mubarak Bala, a prominent Nigerian rationalist and humanist, has been celebrated as a monumental victory for freedom of thought and expression. Bala’s earlier arrest and imprisonment for alleged blasphemy sparked an international outcry, uniting freethinkers, rationalists, and humanists worldwide in a relentless campaign for justice.
In April 2020, Mubarak Bala, the president of the Humanist Association of Nigeria, was arrested in Kano State, a region governed by Sharia law. His arrest followed accusations of blasphemy against Islam due to posts he made on social media. Despite Nigeria’s constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression, Bala’s case underscored the tension between secular rights and religious conservatism in the country.
Bala’s arrest led to a protracted legal battle, marked by delays and violations of his rights, including prolonged detention without trial. In April 2022, he was sentenced to 24 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges of blasphemy and public incitement. His plea was widely believed to have been coerced, given the hostile environment and threats to his safety while in custody.
Bala’s case resonated globally, drawing condemnation from human rights organizations such as Amnesty International, Rationalist International, Humanists International, and Freedom House. The international community of freethinkers and rationalists mobilized swiftly, leveraging diplomatic channels, social media, and public campaigns to highlight his plight.
Activists and organizations worked tirelessly to pressure the Nigerian government, emphasizing that Bala’s imprisonment violated international human rights standards, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Petitions garnered tens of thousands of signatures, while high-profile figures in the secular community amplified his story, ensuring it remained in the global spotlight.
In December 2024, after nearly five years in detention, Mubarak Bala was released. His freedom was met with jubilation among his supporters, but it also reignited discussions about the fragility of free expression in Nigeria and the risks faced by those who challenge religious orthodoxy.
Bala’s safety remains a pressing concern. Having been a vocal critic of religious extremism, he is at significant risk of retaliation. Reports indicate that he is currently in a secure, undisclosed location, receiving support from international human rights groups. Efforts are underway to ensure his long-term safety, including potential relocation to a country where he can continue his advocacy without fear.
Bala’s ordeal highlights the persistent challenges faced by freethinkers in regions where religious conservatism holds sway. His courage and resilience have inspired many, serving as a reminder of the importance of defending freedom of thought, even in the face of adversity.
His case also underscores the power of global solidarity. The international freethought community’s unified response demonstrated that collective action can effect change, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Mubarak Bala’s release is a significant milestone in the fight for human rights and freedom of expression. While his journey has been fraught with challenges, his resilience and the unwavering support of the global humanist community have set a precedent for defending these fundamental freedoms. As Bala begins the next chapter of his life, his story serves as both a cautionary tale and an enduring symbol of hope for those who dare to speak their truth in the face of oppression.
Join us in Finland for the Spring of Reason and Exuberance Conference on 23-24-25 May 2025.
Between Helsinki and Stockholm in the Baltic Sea aon a 3 day cruise.
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