Freetown – False reports circulating on social media claiming that detained opposition activist and entertainer Yeabu Zainab Sheriff (also known as Zainab Sheriff or Mami Na Pawa) has died have been firmly dismissed by her aunt.
The aunt confirmed that she visited Sheriff a few days ago at the Sierra Leone Female Correctional Centre in New England (Pademba Road area) and found her alive but unwell. The visit has raised fresh worries about Sheriff’s health while she remains in custody serving a four-year prison sentence.
Sheriff, a well-known singer, model, reality-TV personality, and chairperson of the Wi Duti (Wi Duti Lappa) Movement, was arrested on 20 February 2026 after being declared wanted. She was charged with incitement and using threatening language under the Public Order Act of 1965. The charges stemmed from remarks she made on 31 January 2026 at an All People’s Congress (APC) gathering at the Brima Attouga Mini Stadium in Freetown, in which prosecutors said she called for those who rig elections — and their families, to be killed and referred to the president in strong terms.
After multiple bail denials, Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah of Pademba Road Magistrate Court No. 1 sentenced her on 14 April 2026 to four years for incitement and two months for threatening language (running concurrently). She has remained at the Female Correctional Centre since. Her legal team has pursued an appeal in the High Court; the process has faced delays, with hearings continuing into July 2026 and the matter still unresolved as of early August.
The aunt’s clarification comes as public concern about Sheriff’s wellbeing has grown. Civil society groups, women’s rights advocates, lawyers, and some politicians have previously called for her release or better treatment, arguing the case raises issues of free speech, proportionality of sentencing for political expression, and conditions for women detainees. Recent social media posts have also asked authorities for updates on her health and access to medical care.
Members of the public are urged to verify information carefully before sharing, especially claims about life or death. Unconfirmed rumours can cause unnecessary distress to families and fuel misinformation. Official updates from the family, legal team, or correctional authorities remain the most reliable sources.
