ECOWAS Court Pushes Nigeria to Abolish Blasphemy Laws, Citing Human Rights Violations

The ECOWAS Court has directed Nigeria to enforce its judgment abolishing blasphemy laws across the country. The ruling declared certain sections of the penal code in Kano State as incompatible with human rights obligations.

Solomon Okedara, a digital rights lawyer and activist, initiated the legal action in October 2023. The court ordered the Nigerian government to repeal or amend the identified provisions to comply with international human rights standards, particularly regarding freedom of expression and religion.