Tension, Massive Protests As Nigeria Signs Controversial Pro-LGBT Agreement In Exchange For Funds, Other Aids

A decision by the Nigerian federal government to sign the controversial Samoa Agreement has sparked outrage among clerics, rights activists, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).

The agreement, signed on November 15, 2023, in Samoa, contains clauses that reportedly compel underdeveloped and developing nations to support the recognition of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community in exchange for financial and other support from advanced societies.

The ratification of the agreement by Nigeria became public knowledge on July 1, when the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, confirmed it at a European Union (EU) reception in Abuja. However, Bagudu’s media assistant, Bolaji Adebiyi, clarified that the documents signed were strictly for Nigeria’s economic development, with no mention of LGBT or same-sex marriage.

Kamarudeen Ogundele, spokesman for the Attorney General of the Federation, stated that he needed to verify the details before commenting further. Meanwhile, Lagos-based lawyer and Chairman of the Human and Constitutional Rights Committee, African Bar Association (AfBA), Sonnie Ekwowusi, criticized the agreement in an article, calling it a threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty and democracy. He questioned the judgment of Nigerian officials who signed the agreement despite previous refusals.

Ekwowusi highlighted that many African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries, including Nigeria, initially refused to sign the agreement. He expressed disbelief at Nigeria’s sudden change of heart and called for an explanation from the officials involved.

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) reiterated its opposition to same-sex marriage and LGBT rights, with Administrative Secretary Abubakar Akande emphasizing the council’s unchanged stance since the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. Similarly, the Abuja Muslim Forum (AMF) rejected the agreement and called for government action.

Rep. Rabiu Yusuf, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Treaties, Protocols, and Agreements, confirmed that the Samoa Agreement had not been brought before the National Assembly for consideration.

African CSOs expressed disappointment, with Barrister Richard Kakeeto of Family Watch International and Omoye Olaye of the World Council for Health urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withdraw Nigeria’s signature from the agreement.

The controversy continues, with some interpreting the minister’s comments as misleading. Former President Jonathan’s 2014 anti-gay law, which criminalizes same-sex relationships, remains a point of reference for Nigeria’s strong objection to LGBT tendencies.