Kola Alapinni
Kola Alapinni is an internationally acclaimed human rights lawyer renowned for his unwavering commitment to defending religious freedom in Nigeria. He has gained prominence through his courageous representation in high-profile blasphemy cases. Among his notable clients are Omar Farouq Bashir, whose 10-year blasphemy sentence was overturned by the Court of Appeals, and Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, whose death sentence for blasphemy was also reversed, though his case awaits a Supreme Court ruling. Alapinni currently represents Mubarak Bala Muhammad, a former religious prisoner of conscience (RPOC), providing pro bono legal defense to uphold justice.
Beyond individual cases, he challenges the constitutionality of Nigeria’s blasphemy laws, advocating for systemic change despite significant personal risks. His dedication has earned him global recognition, including the prestigious U.S. Secretary of State’s International Religious Freedom Award for his fearless defense of religious rights.
A distinguished alumnus of the University of Ibadan (LL.B with Honours) and the University of Essex (LL.M in International Human Rights Law), Alapinni was honored during Essex’s 60th anniversary in 2024, featuring in their SIXTY STORIES publication, which celebrates sixty graduates making a global impact.
Alapinni’s advocacy extends to national and international platforms, where he continues to champion religious freedom and human rights with unparalleled resolve.