In response to the ongoing debate surrounding the Samoa Agreement, a motion has been put forward by 88 members of the House of Representatives, urging the Federal Government to suspend the implementation of the contentious accord until all its clauses are thoroughly addressed and clarified.
The Samoa Agreement, which was signed between the Federal Government and the European Union, has received significant criticism, with many expressing concerns over its perceived recognition of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) rights.
During a session on Tuesday, House member Aliyu Madaki brought attention to a specific clause in the agreement that emphasizes “gender equality.” Madaki described this clause as a potential Trojan horse that could infringe upon the moral values of the country.
In addition, the House has assigned its relevant committees to conduct an investigation into the controversial provisions of the agreement, aiming to shed light on their implications.
However, during a press conference held on Saturday, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, accompanied by Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information, made it clear that Nigeria would not enter into an agreement that contradicts the Constitution or undermines the religious and cultural beliefs of its diverse population.
Bagudu emphasized that Nigeria had signed the agreement with the primary objectives of enhancing food security and fostering inclusive economic development, among other goals.
