Legal Rights Group Demands Release of Detained Entertainer Zainab Sheriff
- Grace Bangura
- Mar 5
- 1 min read
The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice (ILRAJ) has issued a formal call for the immediate release of prominent female entertainer Zainab Sheriff. Sheriff is currently remanded in custody, awaiting trial on charges of allegedly making inciting statements at the Atouga Mini Stadium in Freetown on January 31, 2026. This appeal is made by ILRAJ in the context of the upcoming International Women’s Day.
Sheriff appeared yesterday at the Pademba Road Magistrate Court for her third hearing, following two unsuccessful bail applications. She remains detained at the Female Correctional Center, with the next court date scheduled for March 11, 2026.
ILRAJ has characterized her continued detention as a significant matter of concern for women’s rights and the equitable administration of justice in Sierra Leone, asserting that “freedom for Zainab Sheriff is freedom for all women.” The organization underscored that a delay in her release negatively impacts public trust in the judicial process.
“Justice delayed is justice denied,” stated ILRAJ in its official release, urging that Zainab Sheriff not remain in detention through International Women’s Day.
ILRAJ’s demand emphasizes the critical importance of timely judicial processes and the safeguarding of women’s fundamental rights within Sierra Leone.
As of the time of this report, there has been no official statement from the authorities addressing ILRAJ’s demand for Sheriff’s release.
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