AUSTIN FAIR, Lagos
The law is simply an ass, no doubt. But human beings made the law; signed the law and interpret the law. Not God.
Now, if God, our creator’s own laws to us are disobeyed and yet He forgives us, why can’t we borrow a leaf from that and forgive when we (human beings) are disobeyed.
Well, this writer actually belong to the other side of religion, Christianity, and so not deeply involved but chooses to be in the periphery for obvious reasons. This is because he knows how sensitive the interpretation of religion is, especially in our clime.
Which is why he remains at a loss, to fathom the reason why human beings cannot forgive or amend such laws that touch the heart and also completely inhuman. The recent death sentence passed on a musician in Kano for blasphemy and the state governor’s outburst that he’s ready to approve it if the offender fails to appeal, calls for serious concern.
Much as it is completely sordid, primitive and unpalatable to hear or think of, is it even worth the governor’s attention right now, many are asking, in the midst of other pressing matters affecting the state, the nation and the people he governs? Shocking, isn’t it?
Pity the victim, Aminu. At 22 he’s just beginning to explore his God-given talents. In a society where the youths are not encouraged let alone empowered except he/she belongs, he might have done the song innocently in a bid to rake in fame and fortune; just struggling for survival.
During the heat of Covid-19 and the subsequent lockdown, musicians were among the hardest hit. It was total lockdown for them up till today that the other sectors of the economy have been relaxed. Artistes still don’t perform or ask Naira Marley and a few others about their experience for daring to step out.
Barred from open-field concerts (which sustains them) therefore, many artistes resorted to composing and singing alone, having been confined to their homes and studios. Under this situation, only attention-seeking and controversial lyrics could yield dividends. Suffice it to say that same was what played out and now they want the poor, helpless young man killed!
Well, the feelings around the monitoring world are apprehensive; human lives are supposed to be sacred. Although they are daily wasted in Nigeria, enough restraint must be applied.
If a law made by human beings cannot be repealed, Governor Ganduje can go ahead and execute the helpless young man. He is alone as it is today. Even commuting the sentence would mean nothing. One thing is certain anyway; everybody shall, eventually meet ‘yonder’ no matter one’s dollars, pride or position.
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The OPINION / COLUMN is authored by independent contributors to the National Accord Newspaper. While contributors adhere to our editorial guidelines, they are not employed by the National Accord Newspaper. The perspectives and opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not represent the views of the National Accord Newspaper or its staff.
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