Mubarak Bala, a 38-year-old Nigerian man from Kano, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for renouncing Islam and declaring himself an atheist. Bala’s story is a harrowing tale of persecution, highlighting the dangers faced by non-religious individuals in Nigeria.
A Journey from Faith to Atheism
Bala was born into a devout Muslim family in northern Nigeria. However, as he grew older, he began to question his faith. In 2014, he renounced Islam and declared himself an atheist, a decision that would change his life forever.
Forced Commitment and Torture
Bala’s family was deeply distressed by his decision, and he was forcibly committed to a psychiatric institution in Kano. During his 18-day detention, he was beaten, sedated, and threatened with death if he tried to leave.
International Recognition and Persecution
Despite the challenges he faced, Bala continued to advocate for humanism and atheism. He became the president of the Humanist Association of Nigeria and was recognized internationally for his work. However, his newfound prominence only increased the persecution he faced.
In April 2020, Bala was arrested by detectives from Kano State Police Command for allegedly insulting the Prophet Muhammad in Facebook posts. He was charged with causing a public disturbance and blasphemy, punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment. After a lengthy trial, Bala was sentenced to 24 years in prison.
Appeal and Reduced Sentence
Bala’s legal team appealed the sentence, and in May 2024, the Court of Appeal reduced the sentence to five years.
Human Rights Concerns
Bala’s case highlights the human rights concerns in Nigeria, where apostasy and blasphemy are prohibited by law and punishable by death in some states. The persecution of non-religious individuals like Bala is a stark reminder of the need for greater tolerance and acceptance in Nigerian society.
