not too much

The Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Bill 2006 now before the Nigerian parliament will, as its title implies, prohibit same-sex marriage. That is regretable, but no different to the situation in dozens of other countries. Possibly unique, however, is this deplorable provision in the bill:

7. Prohibition of registration of gay clubs and societies and publicity of same sex sexual relationship.

1. Registration of Gay Clubs, Societies and organizations by whatever name they are called in institutions from Secondary to the tertiary level or other institutions in particular and, in Nigeria generally, by government agencies is hereby prohibited.
2. Publicity, procession and public show of same sex amorous relationship through the electronic or print media physically, directly, indirectly or otherwise are prohibited in Nigeria.
3. Any person who is involved in the registration of gay clubs, societies and organizations, sustenance, procession or meetings, publicity and public show of same sex amorous relationship directly or indirectly in public and in private is guilty of an offence and liable on conviction to a term of 5 years imprisonment.

Not only does Nigeria supress the civil rights of gay and lesbian people, but makes illegal any organised social activity by gay and lesbian people and any attempt by them to assert their rights.

And the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) supports this abuse against its own people.

Pardonnez-moi si je commente en français car c’est plus facile pour moi. Je trouve cette loi Nigérienne extrêmement dangereuse. Elle ouvre la porte à une forme de chasse aux sorcières contre les gais. Je trouve regrettable que l‘église anglicane de ce pays appuie cette loi.
Dominique () (URL) - 11 02 06 - 18:57

We disagree – profoundly, I suggest, because of the deeper issues of Scriptural (and catholic traditional) authority involved – over the holiness of homoerotic relationships, Brian, but I am completely in agreement with you about this matter. I am ashamed that the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) is supporting the government in this exercise in tyranny.
Todd Granger () (URL) - 12 02 06 - 15:30