Kano Govt Urges Lawmakers to Criminalize Same-Sex Marriage

The Kano State Government has called on the State House of Assembly to propose legislation that would make same-sex marriage and related practices illegal across the state. The recommendation was part of resolutions reached at the State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday.

                                  

In a statement issued by Abduljabbar Mohammed Umar, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the council urged lawmakers to back the initiative and pass a law that would “put an end to such activities throughout the state.”

The move signals the state government’s intent to reinforce moral and religious codes already guiding social life in Kano.

Kano, located in northern Nigeria, operates under Islamic Sharia law, which already prohibits same-sex marriage and prescribes strict punishments for those who engage in it.

The council’s push for legislation appears aimed at aligning state laws more explicitly with religious and cultural frameworks.

Broader Implications

• Kano’s stance adds to Nigeria’s wider legal and social restrictions on LGBTQ+ issues.

• While Nigeria’s national law already criminalizes same-sex unions, state-level moves like Kano’s seek to further tighten restrictions.

• The development highlights the intersection of religion, politics, and law in shaping policy decisions.