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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2025/2548(RSP))

On the continuing detention and risk of death penalty for individuals in Nigeria based on blasphemy charge, notably the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu

B-10-2025-0120

on behalf of the S&D Group · Rapporteur: Yannis Maniatis, Francisco Assis, Hannes Heide

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✦ In short · AI summary of this text, generated 4 Sept 2026

Written by a language model from the full text only; every figure comes from the text. The paragraph links open the paragraph a statement rests on — check the text itself before relying on it.

The resolution calls on Nigerian authorities to release Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, withdraw blasphemy charges, and ensure his adequate treatment in detention. It urges the Supreme Court to expedite his appeal, the Governor of Kano to not sign execution warrants, and the EU to oppose the death penalty and push for abolition in Nigeria. It also asks the EU's foreign policy chief and member states to raise the case with Nigerian authorities.

Key points

  1. Calls on Nigerian authorities to immediately release Sharif-Aminu and withdraw blasphemy charges against him.
  2. Insists that while in detention, Sharif-Aminu must have access to adequate food, clothing, and medical treatment.
  3. Calls on the Supreme Court of Nigeria to ensure an expedited and fair appeals process pending his release.
  4. Urges the Governor of Kano to refrain from signing any warrant for Sharif-Aminu's execution.
  5. Underlines the EU's strong opposition to the death penalty in all cases and reiterates calls for Nigeria to withdraw capital punishment for blasphemy and move towards abolition.
  6. Calls on the EU's foreign policy chief and member states to raise Sharif-Aminu's case in engagement with Nigerian authorities.

Who is affected

  • Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, detained in Nigeria on blasphemy charges, faces risk of execution.
  • Nigerian authorities, including the Supreme Court and Governor of Kano, are urged to act.
  • EU institutions and member states are called on to raise the case with Nigeria.

Figures and deadlines

  • March 2020: Sharif-Aminu was accused of blasphemy.
  • August 2020: He was convicted and sentenced to death by hanging.
  • January 2021: Kano State High Court ordered a retrial.
  • August 2022: Court of Appeal confirmed Sharia Penal Code's compatibility with constitution.
  • November 2022: Sharif-Aminu appealed to the Supreme Court.