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Nigerian Clerics, Activists Outraged Over Signing of Controversial Samoa Agreement
Kaduna, Nigeria – Clerics, rights activists, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria have expressed outrage following the federal government’s decision to sign the controversial Samoa Agreement. The agreement, signed on November 15, 2023, in Samoa, allegedly contains clauses that compel underdeveloped and developing nations to support the recognition of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) communities in exchange for financial and other supports from advanced societies.
Key Points of Contention:
- Signing and Ratification: Nigeria’s ratification of the agreement was confirmed on July 1, 2024, by Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, during a reception organized by the European Union (EU) in Abuja.
- Allegations of Hidden Clauses: Critics argue that the agreement includes provisions supporting LGBT rights, which they claim were not transparent during the signing process.
- Official Denials: Bagudu’s media assistant, Bolaji Adebiyi, refuted these claims, asserting that the signed documents focus solely on economic development and do not mention LGBT rights or same-sex marriage.
Reactions from Key Figures and Organizations:
- Gloria Ballason, House of Justice: Ballason condemned the abduction and subsequent murder of Victor Gimba, the judge’s son. She emphasized the need for judicial officers’ protection and urged the government to ensure the safety of the judge and her family.
- Sonnie Ekwowusi, AfBA: In a strongly worded article, Ekwowusi criticized the signing of the agreement, calling it a “celebration of perversity” and a threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty. He questioned the judgment of Nigerian officials and demanded immediate withdrawal from the agreement.
- NSCIA and AMF: Both the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Abuja Muslim Forum (AMF) rejected any agreement conflicting with Islamic values. They reiterated their stance against same-sex marriage and LGBT rights, urging the government to respect religious and cultural norms.
- Rep. Rabiu Yusuf: Chairman of the House Committee on Treaties, Protocols, and Agreements, Yusuf, stated that the Samoa Agreement had not been presented to the National Assembly for consideration, emphasizing a need for legislative oversight.
Civil Society and Legal Reactions:
- African CSOs’ Outrage: A coalition of African CSOs condemned the signing, describing it as a betrayal of moral and cultural values. They called for an apology from the federal government and immediate withdrawal from the agreement.
- Richard Kakeeto, Family Watch International: Kakeeto highlighted the detrimental impact of the agreement on African values, criticizing the inclusion of terms supporting abortion and comprehensive sexuality education.
- Omoye Olaye, WCH and FACH: Olaye demanded an apology and immediate withdrawal from the agreement, stressing that it undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty and cultural integrity.
Government’s Defense:
- Minister’s Spokesman, Adebiyi: Adebiyi argued that the Samoa Agreement does not mention LGBT rights, clarifying that Articles 2.5 and 29.5 focus on gender equality and reproductive health, not LGBT advocacy. He emphasized that the agreement is subject to domestic laws and aligned with the country’s economic development goals.
Historical Context:
- Anti-Gay Law of 2014: Nigeria has historically opposed LGBT rights, with former President Goodluck Jonathan signing a law in 2014 criminalizing same-sex relationships. This law remains a point of national pride for many religious and cultural groups in Nigeria.
The controversy surrounding the Samoa Agreement highlights the deep cultural and religious divisions on LGBT rights in Nigeria. The ongoing debate underscores the need for transparent and inclusive policymaking processes that respect the country’s diverse values and sovereignty.
