Nigerian lawmakers have called for an investigation into the Samoa Agreement, a deal signed by federal authorities with the European Union. The request follows media reports suggesting that certain provisions of the agreement could advocate for same-sex relationships.
Authorities in Nigeria have denied these allegations and have pledged to take action against the news organizations that reported them.
Lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with not being consulted before the agreement, named after the Pacific Island nation of Samoa where it was initially negotiated in November, was signed. A majority of legislators voted to launch an inquiry into the agreement.
Critics, such as House of Representatives member Aliyu Madaki, argue that the Samoa Agreement should provide clearer guidelines regarding clauses that pertain to gender rights.
Madaki expressed concerns, stating, “The term ‘gender equality’ is used deceptively to introduce various forms of immorality into our country. Gender no longer refers strictly to the biological sexes of male and female as traditionally understood; it now includes homosexuality, lesbianism, transgenderism, and bestiality.”
On June 28, Nigerian authorities signed the Samoa Agreement with the European Union and 79 other countries, including African, Caribbean, and Pacific nations.
Authorities argue that the agreement aims to strengthen partnerships for democratic norms, human rights, and economic growth. It also intends to help member nations address common challenges such as climate change, migration, and security.
Authorities clarified that Nigeria signed the agreement after extensive reviews and consultations.
The agreement sparked national debate, which suggested that a clause related to gender rights in the agreement might be interpreted to support same-sex relationships.
This week, Nigerian officials held a press briefing in Abuja to refute these claims and announced plans to take legal action against the newspaper. They also rebutted allegations that Nigeria would gain $150 billion from the agreement.
Information Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi addressed reporters, stating, “We are disturbed by the reckless reporting and statements made by certain media outlets and individuals, which could jeopardize national security and stability. Such allegations are unfounded and malicious, as they are not reflected in the official agreement signed on behalf of the federal government.”
“He expressed concern over individuals exploiting the government’s guarantee of a free media environment,” he said.
In 2014, Nigeria criminalized same-sex relationships and implemented a 14-year prison sentence for violators.
On Tuesday, the Nigerian Bar Association endorsed the government’s position after scrutinizing the agreement.
However, Sonnie Ekwokusi, Chairperson of the Human Rights Committee at the African Bar Association, told Lagos-based Channels Television that Madaki’s argument is valid.
“This Samoa agreement extensively incorporates terminology from the EU and United Nations,” Ekwokusi stated. “I am familiar with EU terminology and understand their intended implications.”