FG asks DSS to investigate ‘same sex marriage’ debate

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

This was contained in a letter dated 9th August 2024 and directed 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 said to have been sent out to commissioners of education in the states alleging it was from the Federal Ministry of Education, a claim the ministry denied, saying it is fraudulent and didn’t emanate from them.

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Gwarzo, in the letter to the DSS, said the sensitive nature of the topic is not only against the cultural and religious values of the majority of Nigerians but also contravenes existing Nigerian laws.

“This initiative is capable of causing widespread confusion and potentially inciting unrest within the country,” he said.

He said: “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 debate could be interpreted as a deliberate attempt to undermine the laws of Nigeria and destabilise societal norms, thereby causing unnecessary tension and division among the populace.

“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 urged the department to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves and take the necessary steps to safeguard the peace and stability of our nation.