The United Kingdon on Wednesday stated its position on the death
sentence passed on a Kano musician, Yahaya
Sharif-Aminu, by a Shari’a court.
The UK in its statement noted that citizens have the right right
to freely express opinions and peacefully challenge authorities,
noting that this was essential to a free and open society.
The Shari’a court had penultimate Monday imposed the death
sentence on Sharif-Aminu, aged 22, for committing blasphemy against
Prophet Mohammed in a song he circulated via WhatsApp.
The judgement has been condemned by prominent individuals and
Nigerians, meanwhile, the Shari’a Council has called on
Governor Umar Ganduje of Kano State to sign the death
warrant.
The British High Commission in Nigeria while commenting on the
sentence noted that it would continue to monitor the situation.
In an emailed response by the Senior Press and Public Affairs
Officer, British High Commission, Christopher Ogunmodede, the
Mission said the UK Government oppose the death penalty in all
circumstances.
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It read, “The United Kingdom is firmly committed to
promoting and protecting the right to freedom of religion or belief
around the world, and to being a strong voice internationally in
defence of this fundamental right.”
“We believe that the rights of individuals to express
opinions and peacefully challenge authorities are essential to a
free and open society. We will continue to monitor the situation
closely. It is a longstanding policy of the UK Government to oppose
the death penalty, in all circumstances, as a matter of
principle.”
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