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The House of Representatives has called for the suspension of the implementation of the Samoa Agreement, which was signed by the federal government on June 28.
This decision follows the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Sani Madaki, the minority whip, and 87 other lawmakers.
During the motion’s presentation, Madaki argued that the agreement violates the nation’s laws regarding LGBTQ issues and same-sex marriage. Ghali Tijani from Kano supported the motion, urging the House to reject the Samoa Agreement entirely.
Bello Kumo, the majority whip, suggested the federal government should rescind the signing and apologise to Nigerians.
Kingsley Chinda, the minority leader and co-sponsor of the motion, emphasised that the motion was not about approving or condemning the agreement but rather calling for an investigation. He noted that the lawmakers were not adequately informed or involved before the agreement was signed.
Majority leader Julius Ihonvbere attempted to reassure his colleagues that there is no portion of the agreement that supports LGBTQ rights, but his statement was met with interruptions and shouts of “no” from other lawmakers.
The Samoa agreement has recently sparked controversy due to reports that it includes provisions related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights. These reports claimed that the agreement compels developing nations to support LGBTQ agendas.
However, these claims have been proven false.
Mohammed Idris, the minister of information and national orientation, clarified that the federal government ensured the agreement did not contravene the 1999 Constitution (as amended) or other existing laws.
He stated that the agreement is focused solely on economic development and does not contain provisions for same-sex marriage.
Ozioma Samuel-Ugwuezi
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