Federal Ministry of Education Requests DSS Investigation into Debate Proposal on Legalizing Same-Sex Marriage in Nigeria

In a move highlighting the complex interplay of Nigeria’s cultural and legal sensitivities, the Federal Ministry of Education has formally asked the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate a contentious letter from the Creative Africa Initiative. The letter suggests a national debate on the issue of “Should Same-Sex Marriage Be Legalized in Nigeria?”

The Ministry, which has not endorsed the proposal, has expressed concerns about the potential impact of such a debate on public order and societal norms. The letter’s contents have raised alarms among officials due to Nigeria's prevailing cultural and religious opposition to same-sex marriage. The proposed debate is perceived as a possible challenge to Nigerian laws that currently prohibit same-sex relationships.

Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, conveyed the urgency of the situation in a letter addressed to the Director-General of the DSS. He warned that introducing such a provocative topic into public discussion could incite significant unrest and division among the populace, potentially destabilizing the country’s legal and social framework.

The Ministry has called for a comprehensive investigation into the matter, reiterating its commitment to maintaining national stability and addressing any actions that could disrupt societal harmony.