FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – 1 March 2026 – The Office of the Ambassador of Entertainment has issued a strongly worded public statement following the arrest of popular female entertainer Zainab Sheriff, who remains in custody after allegedly making an inciting statement at Atouga Mini Stadium in Freetown on Saturday, 31 January 2026.
In the official statement released today and signed by Ambassador Amara Dennis Turay, popularly known as “Kao Denero,” the Office confirmed that Sheriff has been denied bail on two separate occasions and that her case has been adjourned to Tuesday, 4 March 2026.
While firmly condemning any form of expression “that has the potential to incite unrest, promote division, or undermine the hard-earned peace of our beloved nation,” the Office was careful to balance its position with a call for due process.
“We absolutely condemn any form of expression, by any individual, regardless of status or profession, that has the potential to incite unrest,” the statement reads. “Sierra Leone’s history, particularly the painful memories of our civil conflict, remains a solemn reminder of the value of unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.”
At the same time, the Office acknowledged Sheriff’s status as a member of the entertainment industry and urged authorities to uphold her constitutional rights.
“We respectfully appeal to the appropriate authorities to ensure that she is accorded her full constitutional rights and treated fairly under the laws of Sierra Leone,” the statement continued. “Justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done, fairly, transparently, and without prejudice.”
The Office went further, humbly requesting that judicial authorities consider granting her bail where legally permissible, “and allow due process to take its course in accordance with established legal standards.”
The statement emphasised that every citizen, “regardless of profession, is entitled to justice that is impartial and humane.”
In its closing remarks, the Office reaffirmed its commitment to working with artists and stakeholders to promote responsible messaging and national unity, urging all entertainers and public figures to “exercise prudence and responsibility in their public engagements.”
“Sierra Leone’s peace is our collective responsibility. Let us continue to guard it with wisdom, discipline, and compassion,” the statement concluded.
The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of public speech in the country and has sparked widespread discussion on the boundaries of creative expression and national security.
The case continues.
