The controversy over the Samoa Agreement has taken a new turn as the House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to suspend the Samoa Agreement’s implementation until all contentious clauses are addressed. This follows a motion sponsored by 88 members, including Aliyu Madaki, who raised concerns about the agreement’s gender equality clause, which some believe could violate the country’s morals.
The Samoa Agreement, signed by Nigeria with the European Union, aims to boost food security and economic development.
However, it has sparked controversy for allegedly recognizing LGBT rights, which contradicts Nigeria’s 2014 anti-same-sex marriage law.
At a press conference, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, and Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, assured that Nigeria wouldn’t enter any agreement against its constitution and cultural values.
The House has mandated relevant committees to investigate the agreement’s controversial provisions to ensure they align with national interests.