Nigeria’s signing of the Samoa Agreement with the European Union has caused friction at home. The agreement, intended to boost economic development, has become controversial due to fears of hidden clauses promoting LGBTQ rights.
Government Clarifies Focus on Economic Benefits
Budget Minister Abubakar Atiku Bagudu confirmed Nigeria’s participation in early July. However, his spokesperson, Bolaji Adebiyi, later clarified that the agreement solely focused on economic development with no mention of LGBTQ rights or same-sex marriage.
“There’s absolutely no mention of LGBTQ or same-sex marriage in the document,” Adebiyi emphasized.
Critics Question Agreement’s Impact
Despite these assurances, lawyer Sonnie Ekwowusi, a prominent human rights advocate, expressed concerns. He questioned the government’s understanding of the agreement’s potential impact and highlighted opposition from the African Bar Association.
“I doubt the Nigerian officials who signed this agreement grasp its implications for our sovereignty, let alone the negative consequences it could have for Nigeria,” Ekwowusi said.
Religious Groups and African NGOs Voice Disapproval
Nigeria’s prominent Islamic organizations and a coalition of African civil society groups also condemned the deal. They view the agreement as a threat to Nigeria’s traditional values.
Barrister Richard Kakeeto, a Kenyan lawyer, expressed disappointment. He said African nations counted on Nigeria’s initial refusal to sign, fearing the agreement promotes a European human rights agenda that includes abortion, sex education, and LGBTQ support.
National Assembly Involvement Unclear
Adding to the confusion, the Chairman of the House Committee on Agreements, Hon. Rabiu Yusuf, claims the agreement hasn’t been presented to the National Assembly for approval.
“As far as I know, the Samoa Agreement hasn’t been brought before the National Assembly,” Yusuf stated.
This controversy underscores the complex challenges Nigeria faces in balancing economic development with cultural values and human rights considerations in its relationship with the European Union.
