Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has ordered a crackdown on individuals and groups suspected of promoting and advocating for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights in the state.
The directive comes amid rising tensions over alleged activities promoting same-sex marriage in the state.
The state commissioner for information and internal affairs, Malam Baba Dantiye, disclosed the governor’s directive on Sunday, July 7, 2024, while addressing concerns about an alleged agreement by the federal government related to LGBTQ rights.
“The state government will not accept any agreement that promotes the activities of gays and lesbians, as it contravenes the norms and values of the people of Kano and breaches the state’s moral standards,” Dantiye stated.
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Governor Yusuf has mandated the Hisbah Board to take action against groups promoting LGBT rights in Kano. “I spoke with the governor, and he expressed his disapproval of the said agreement, even though it has not yet been confirmed. He assured me that there is no room for LGBT activities in Kano,” Dantiye said.
The commissioner emphasized the strong opposition to LGBT activities in the state, noting that 98% of Kano’s population are Muslims whose faith opposes such practices. “Our religion is against this immorality, so we can’t accept it,” he added.
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Dantiye also mentioned that the government has received numerous concerns from citizens about groups allegedly promoting LGBT activities.
In response, the governor has instructed Hisbah to investigate these claims and take appropriate action. “We will take legal action as appropriate,” he stated.
The directive underscores the state government’s firm stance on upholding Kano’s cultural and religious values amidst ongoing debates about LGBTQ rights in Nigeria.