Nigerian lawmakers move closer to outlawing same-sex unions

Nigerian lawmakers have taken a significant step toward banning same-sex unions after the Cross River State House of Assembly passed a bill for its second reading. The measure aims to prohibit both same-sex marriage and civil unions within the state, including those registered outside of Cross River. Lawmakers argued that such unions contradict religious and cultural values, and they emphasized the need to uphold traditional family structures. The bill, introduced by Hilary Bisong, a member representing the Boki II State Constituency, was based on biblical teachings. During the debate, Mr. Bisong cited passages from Genesis 1:27 and 2:24, which describe marriage as a union between a man and a woman. He also referenced the story of Sodom and Gomorrah and Leviticus 20:13, asserting that same-sex relationships violate divine principles. According to the proposed law, same-sex marriages or civil unions would not receive legal recognition or benefits equivalent to those of heterosexual marriages. Certificates issued for such unions outside the state would also be invalid within Cross River, and local courts would not enforce any rights derived from these unions, whether certified or not. Section 4(7) of the 1999 Constitution was invoked by Mr. Bisong to justify the state's authority to legislate on matters related to peace, order, and good governance. He stated that the proposed law would prevent the solemnization of same-sex unions in churches, courts, mosques, traditional shrines, and other places of worship. The bill’s provisions were broadly supported by lawmakers, who viewed same-sex relationships as incompatible with their moral and religious convictions. Some members went further, labeling same-sex relationships as detrimental to societal well-being and advocating for stricter measures to curb the practice. Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, praised the lawmakers for their contributions during the debate. He voiced concerns over what he termed an increase in sexual permissiveness within the state. Ayambem emphasized that if the bill is ultimately passed, the law would include severe penalties for anyone found violating its provisions. This stance reflects a broader trend in some parts of Nigeria, where religious leaders and conservative groups have increasingly pushed for laws that align with traditional values. The passage of this bill marks another milestone in the ongoing discourse surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in Nigeria. While the Cross River State House of Assembly has moved forward with the legislation, the final approval still requires a third reading and subsequent endorsement by the state governor. If enacted, the law could set a precedent for other states considering similar measures. However, the issue remains highly contentious, with advocates for LGBTQ+ rights warning of potential human rights violations and discrimination against individuals who identify as gay or lesbian. In recent years, several Nigerian religious leaders have publicly opposed same-sex relationships, often citing biblical texts to support their positions. Some have even threatened to resign from their positions or take disciplinary action against congregations that endorse such practices. These developments highlight the deepening divide between progressive and conservative factions within Nigerian society. As the legislative process continues, the outcome of this bill could influence future debates on gender and sexuality in the country.