FG Asks DSS To Investigate ‘Same Sex Marriage’ Debate

Dr Nasir Sani-Gwarzo, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Education, has requested that the Department of State of Services (DSS) investigate the origin and intentions behind the letter from Creative Africa Initiative requesting a national debate on the topic “Same-Sex Marriage Should Be Legalised in Nigeria”.

This was stated in a letter dated August 9, 2024 and addressed to the director general of DSS.

The letter read; “I write to bring to your attention a matter of urgent national concern. It has come to my notice that an organisation, Creative Africa Initiative, has issued a letter not originating from the Federal Ministry Education proposing to hold a national debate with the topic: “Same-Sex Marriage Should Be Legalised in Nigeria” (letter attached).”

The letter for the debate was reported to have been sent to Commissioners of Education in the states, claiming to be from the Federal Ministry of Education, which the ministry rejected, claiming it was false and did not come from them.

In his letter to the DSS, Gwarzo stated that the sensitive nature of the matter not only goes against the majority of Nigerians’ cultural and religious values, but also violates existing Nigerian laws.

“This initiative is capable of causing widespread confusion and potentially inciting unrest within the country. The introduction of such a topic into public discourse, especially through a formal debate, may have far-reaching consequences that could disrupt public peace and social cohesion.”

He explained that the argument could be perceived as a purposeful attempt to undermine Nigerian laws and disrupt cultural norms, resulting in unneeded tension and division among the population.

“In light of the above, I humbly request that the Department of State Services (DSS) investigate the origin and intentions behind this letter from Creative Africa Initiative. It is crucial to ensure that such activities, which have the potential to incite discord, capable of causing widespread confusion and potentially inciting unrest within the country are thoroughly scrutinized and addressed appropriately,” the letter reads.

The permanent secretary advised the department to consider the problem seriously and take the required steps to ensure our country’s peace and stability.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli