- The Federal Government requests DSS investigation into a fraudulent letter proposing a national debate on legalizing same-sex marriage in Nigeria
- Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo warns that discussing same-sex marriage violates Nigerian laws and cultural values, potentially inciting unrest and confusion
The Federal Government has requested the Department of State Services (DSS) investigate the origin and intentions behind a controversial letter from the Creative Africa Initiative proposing a national debate on the topic of “Same-Sex Marriage Should Be Legalised in Nigeria.”
Dr. Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, made the request in a letter dated August 9, 2024, directed to the Director-General of the DSS.
Dr. Sani-Gwarzo highlighted that the letter for the debate, allegedly sent to state commissioners of education and claimed to be from the Federal Ministry of Education, is fraudulent and did not originate from the ministry.
The Permanent Secretary expressed deep concern over the sensitive nature of the topic, which he noted is against the cultural and religious values of the majority of Nigerians and violates existing Nigerian laws. He warned that such a debate could cause widespread confusion, incite unrest, and disrupt public peace and social cohesion.
Dr. Sani-Gwarzo emphasized that introducing this topic into public discourse, especially through a formal debate, could be seen as a deliberate attempt to undermine Nigerian laws and destabilize societal norms, leading to unnecessary tension and division among the populace.
In light of these concerns, he urged the DSS to thoroughly investigate the origin and intentions behind the letter from the Creative Africa Initiative, ensuring that any activities with the potential to incite discord are appropriately scrutinized and addressed.
The Permanent Secretary called on the DSS to treat the matter with the utmost seriousness to safeguard the peace and stability of the nation.