In Nigeria, where same-sex relationships are illegal and punishable by up to 14 years in prison, LGBT individuals already live in constant fear. Recently, widespread misinformation about the Samoa Agreement, a cooperation deal between the European Union (EU) and 79 countries from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, has further fueled hostility towards the LGBT community.
The Samoa Agreement and Misconceptions
The Samoa Agreement, signed by Nigeria in June, does not mention LGBT rights or same-sex relationships. However, a misleading report by Nigeria’s Daily Trust newspaper falsely claimed that the agreement forces underdeveloped and developing countries to recognize LGBT rights as a condition for receiving financial and other supports from advanced societies. This claim quickly went viral, spreading fear and anger among Nigerians.
Legal Context and Misinformation
Nigerian lawyer Ugo Egbujo clarified that no international agreement can automatically change Nigerian law and approve LGBT. The only way to domesticate a law in Nigeria is through the National Assembly, where members must deliberate and vote to adopt it. Despite this legal safeguard, the misinformation has persisted.
Government and Legal Responses
The Nigerian government has firmly stated that it would never compromise its anti- LGBT laws and signed the Samoa Agreement solely to boost economic development. The Nigerian Bar Association has debunked the rumors, emphasizing that there is no provision in the agreement requiring the country to accept LGBT rights. The EU confirmed that the agreement includes no dedicated funding for Nigeria, though there is a substantial fund available to Africa aimed at boosting infrastructure and education.
Political and Social Fallout
Despite these clarifications, opposition supporters have used the fake news to attack the government and incite anger over issues of religion, ethnicity, and politics. President Bola Tinubu and Vice-President Kashim Shettima, both Muslims, have faced accusations of betraying their faith. The false story has trended on social media, becoming a hot topic for influencers and political commentators.
The controversy can be traced back to an opinion article by lawyer Sonnie Ekwowusi in Nigeria’s Vanguard newspaper, urging the government not to sign the Samoa Agreement, which he misleadingly labeled as an LGBT agreement. Although the EU acknowledged concerns about LGBT issues, the agreement’s wording does not go beyond existing international agreements. Nigeria signed the agreement after extensive reviews and consultations, confirming its consistency with Nigerian laws and commitments.
Ongoing Debate and Government Response
Despite the government’s efforts to clarify the situation, critics like Ekwowusi have continued to stir controversy. In an interview, Ekwowusi suggested that terms like “gender equality” and “reproductive health” are euphemisms for LGBT rights and abortion. He advocated for clearer definitions in the agreement.
What is the Samoa Agreement?
The Samoa Agreement is a legal framework for relations between the EU and the Organisation of the African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS). It addresses global challenges, including human rights, democratic principles, economic growth, climate change, and migration. It replaces the Cotonou Agreement, aiming to build partnerships for sustainable development and growth.
Political Reactions and Public Concerns
The Nigerian parliament has called for an investigation into the agreement, with lawmakers expressing concerns that the deal could promote same-sex relationships. Critics argue that terms like “gender equality” and “reproductive health” could be misinterpreted to include LGBT rights. Despite the government’s assurances, some remain unconvinced, demanding more explicit language to avoid any misinterpretation.
Moving Forward
The Nigerian government continues to address the misinformation and reassure the public. Information Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi condemned the reckless reporting and emphasized that the Samoa Agreement does not undermine Nigeria’s laws. The government has also promised to take legal action against media outlets spreading false information.
Conclusion
The Samoa Agreement, intended to foster cooperation and development, has been marred by misinformation and fear-mongering. As Nigeria navigates this controversy, it is crucial for accurate information and open dialogue to prevail, ensuring that the rights and safety of all citizens, including the LGBT community, are protected.
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