Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has approved the transmission of a bill to the State House of Assembly to outlaw same-s^x marriage and practices deemed immoral, reinforcing the state’s commitment to Islamic values and cultural traditions.
The announcement was made by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, following the 31st Executive Council meeting held at the Government House Annex in Kwankwasiyya City on Friday, September 12, 2025.
During the meeting, Governor Yusuf emphasized that his administration would not compromise on the teachings of Islam or Kano’s cultural heritage.
The proposed legislation specifically prohibits same-sex marriage and practices locally referred to as Madugo and Liwadi, which the government considers forbidden.
“Under no circumstance will we allow acts that contradict our religion and traditions to take root in Kano. This government is duty-bound to protect the moral integrity of our society,” Yusuf declared.
Once passed into law by the State Assembly, the bill will impose strict legal consequences on individuals found guilty of engaging in or promoting same-sex marriage and related practices.
While specific penalties were not outlined in the statement, the move aligns with Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, signed into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan on January 7, 2014, which criminalizes same-sex unions and related activities nationwide with penalties of up to 14 years in prison.
Governor Yusuf expressed confidence that the State Assembly would treat the bill with urgency, citing its importance to the moral and social well-being of Kano State.
“I am certain our lawmakers will act swiftly to ensure this legislation upholds the values we cherish,” he said.
The proposal has elicited mixed reactions. Supporters, including religious leaders and community elders, have hailed the governor’s decision as a necessary step to safeguard Kano’s moral fabric.
Mallam Yusuf Abdullahi, a local imam, stated, “This bill protects our youth and our society from practices that go against our faith.” Conversely, human rights advocates have raised concerns, warning that the legislation could deepen discrimination and violate personal freedoms.
“This risks further marginalizing vulnerable groups and stifling individual rights,” said Fatima Usman, a human rights lawyer based in Kano.
The bill’s submission comes within the context of Nigeria’s existing federal prohibition on same-sex marriage, suggesting Kano aims to strengthen enforcement at the state level while addressing specific local practices.
As the State Assembly prepares to deliberate, the proposed law is expected to spark significant debate, both locally and nationally, over the balance between cultural values and human rights.
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