The Nigerian Government Refuses to Retreat Anti Gay Bill Despite Threats from the U.S. and U.K. Governments

The Federal Government of Nigeria has refused to apologize for the anti-gay bill that was recently passed by the Senate despite threats from the U.S. and U.K. Governments to refuse aid to the country if it proceeds with the bill.

Information Minister, Labaran Maku in a statement yesterday says there are no regrets, and that Nigeria has the right to make its own decisions.

“Let me make the point clear, our country is an independent country, we reserve the right to make our laws without apologies to other countries. The reported comments by the U.S. government about the proposed law by the Senate about same sex marriages in Nigeria has not fully come to government for a position. But let me say this, we live in a democracy, we live in a free country, we live in an independent country.

The bill bans public displays of affection between homosexual couples and prohibits same sex marriage by imposing a 14-year jail term on anyone who enters into such union, as well as a 10-year term for anyone who aids such union.

Mr. Maku, noting that there are major cultural differences between Africa and the West, and that what may be acceptable to the West may be unacceptable to Africa said "Nigeria reserves the right as an independent nation to live under laws that are democratically passed by the National Assembly."

The bill is expected to go to the House of Representatives for approval and the President for Assent before it becomes a law.
 

photo credit: allafrica.com