The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has said it would prefer not to comment on matters that are still at the level of speculation, adding that Nigeria is a country governed by laws, and some procedures must be followed before any significant changes can be implemented.

In his reaction, the spokesperson of the forum Abdul-Azeez Suleiman said, “Indeed, Nigeria has a history of taking a strong stance against LGBT rights. In January 2014, former President Goodluck Jonathan signed into law a Bill that criminaliszes same-sex relationships with a penalty of up to 14 years in prison for offenders.

“This anti-gay law is still in effect in Nigeria, and it reflects the deeply ingrained societal attitudes towards homosexuality in the country.

“While the global push for LGBT rights is still an issue, it cannot be forced upon countries that have different cultural and religious beliefs.”