Education ministry calls for DSS investigation into controversial same-sex marriage debate initiative

In a move reflecting the sensitive dynamics of Nigeria’s cultural and legal landscape, the Federal Ministry of Education has formally requested the Department of State Services (DSS) to conduct an investigation into a controversial letter from the Creative Africa Initiative.

This letter proposes a national debate on the topic “Same-Sex Marriage Should Be Legalized in Nigeria,” raising alarms within the Ministry due to its potential implications for public peace and societal norms.

The letter, which has not been sanctioned by the Ministry, has sparked concerns among officials about its alignment with Nigeria’s cultural and religious values, which predominantly oppose same-sex marriage. Notably, such a debate could be seen as a challenge to existing Nigerian laws, which currently criminalize same-sex relationships.

Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, emphasized the urgency of the matter in a correspondence addressed to the Director-General of the DSS.

He articulated that the introduction of such a contentious topic into public discourse could lead to significant unrest and division among the populace, undermining the legal framework and societal cohesion in Nigeria.

The ministry calls for a thorough investigation. It emphasised its commitment to safeguarding national stability and addressing any actions that could incite discord within the country.