The European Union (EU) welcomed the acquittal of Safiya...

The European Union (EU) welcomed the acquittal of Safiya Hussaini by the Sokoto Sharia Court of Appeal. The EU considered of the utmost importance that Ms. Hussaini is ensured all her human rights and fully reintegrated into society.
The EU acknowledged the important role played by civil society, in particular represented by all human rights and non-governmental organizations associated to this case.
The EU reiterated its position on the death penalty and remains concerned that similar sentences may be imposed on other women accused of adultery.
The EU took note of the letter by the Minister of Justice dated 18 march 2002 and encouraged the Government of Nigeria to continue to work towards the abolition of the death penalty and the prevention of all forms of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
The Central and Eastern European countries associated with the European Union, the associated countries Cyprus, Malta and Turkey, and the EFTA countries Norway and Liechtenstein, members of the European Economic Area, aligned themselves with the EU's declaration.