The House of Representatives has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to suspend the enforcement of the Samoa Agreement until all contentious clauses are thoroughly examined and clarified. This decision follows a motion of urgent national importance put forward by 88 members of the House.
During the discussion on Tuesday, House member Aliyu Madaki highlighted concerns about the clause on “gender equality,” describing it as a potential threat to the country’s moral values. The House has also tasked its relevant committees with scrutinizing the disputed terms of the agreement.
The Samoa Agreement, recently signed by the Federal Government with the European Union, has sparked controversy over fears that it could lead to the recognition of LGBT rights in Nigeria. Many critics have voiced their disapproval online, citing the country’s laws against same-sex marriages and gay relationships, which were enacted in 2014 under then-President Goodluck Jonathan.
In response to these concerns, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, and Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, emphasized in a weekend press conference that Nigeria would not enter into any agreement that contradicts the constitution or the religious and cultural beliefs of its diverse population. Bagudu clarified that the agreement was signed to enhance food security, promote inclusive economic development, and address other critical areas.
The Samoa Agreement, signed in Apia last November, involves the European Union, its 27 member states, and 79 member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS). This new agreement, succeeding the Cotonou Agreement, aims to better address emerging global challenges such as climate change, ocean governance, migration, health, peace, and security.
Nigeria signed the agreement on June 28, 2024, but it only became public knowledge days later following a disclosure by Bagudu.
