The approval of the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ legislation has brought joy to Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, according to his spokesperson.
On February 28, 2024, Parliament passed the anti-LGBTQ+ bill after almost three years of deliberation. The bill stipulates a prison sentence of up to three years for individuals identifying as LGBTQ+, and a maximum five-year jail term for advocacy or financial support by LGBTQ+ organizations.
While this aspect of the bill has sparked debate among certain civil society groups and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), who argue it infringes upon fundamental human rights, Chief Imam Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu sees it as progress.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on March 2, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, the Chief Imam’s spokesperson, expressed the Muslim community’s satisfaction with the news, citing that the bill will uphold family values.
He emphasized that the Chief Imam views the bill as a means of protecting the family structure, which is considered sacred in the Muslim understanding. Any practice deemed detrimental to the family is vehemently opposed.
Shaibu commended lawmakers for their steadfastness in passing the bill despite objections and challenges.
Regarding concerns about human rights violations, Shaibu argued that laws should benefit society, and any law endangering social purity must be rejected.
“It is not an academic issue, it is not a human rights issue but it is about survival. Any law that is harmful to society, society must think together within our wisdom and that is what identifies us and distinguishes us from other nations,” he concluded.
