The recent passage of the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill has been met with excitement by the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu. After nearly three years of deliberation, Parliament finally passed the bill on February 28.
This bill imposes a prison sentence of up to three years on individuals convicted of identifying as LGBTQ+, and a maximum five-year jail term for advocacy or funding by LGBTQ+ groups. Despite criticism from some civil society groups and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), who argue that it violates basic human rights, Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu believes that the passage of the bill is a step in the right direction.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on March 2, the Spokesperson for the Chief Imam, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, expressed their elation over the news, stating that the bill will help preserve family values. He emphasized the importance of protecting the family system, which is considered the property of God and the smallest unit of society.
Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu commended legislators for their steadfastness in passing the bill despite the challenges it faced. He emphasized that anything that undermines the family system will not receive their support, as it is viewed as reprehensible, abominable, and objectionable.
When questioned about concerns regarding human rights violations, the spokesperson highlighted that laws are enacted to benefit society and any law that threatens the purity of society is harmful. He emphasized that the passage of the bill is not an academic issue but a matter of survival and societal well-being.
The Chief Imam and the Muslim community are supportive of the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, believing it to be a necessary step in upholding moral values and preserving family structures.
