The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has unequivocally stated that the SAMOA agreement does not mandate Nigeria to accept or recognize LGBTQ rights.
This clarification follows widespread speculation and misinformation regarding the stipulations of the $150 billion loan agreement.
In a statement signed by the President of the NBA, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Yakubu Maikyau, the association emphasised that the agreement respects the local laws and sovereignty of the contracting nations, including Nigeria.
“The SAMOA agreement expressly acknowledges the supremacy of Nigeria’s Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, 2023, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended),” Maikyau stated.
The NBA’s intervention comes amidst growing concerns and debates over the perceived implications of international agreements on Nigeria’s domestic laws.
Maikyau reassured the public that the agreement does not impose any conditions that would undermine Nigeria’s legal and constitutional framework.
“If there had been any clauses within the SAMOA agreement that threatened Nigeria’s sovereignty, the NBA would have promptly advised the Federal Government against such engagements,” he added.
The NBA also highlighted the importance of public enlightenment to dispel the negative perceptions surrounding the agreement.
It urged the government to continue its efforts in educating the populace and called on other stakeholders to participate actively in these initiatives.
“It is crucial for the public to critically assess information disseminated through newspapers and social media to verify its accuracy,” the NBA advised.
The association’s stance aligns with its long-standing commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the nation’s sovereignty.
This latest clarification is expected to quell the ongoing controversy and provide a clearer understanding of Nigeria’s position within the SAMOA agreement.
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