GAY MARRIAGE IN NIGERIA

Senate President David Mark yesterday told German Ambassador to Nigeria, Dorothee Janetzke –Wenzel in Abuja that the ban on same sex marriage in Nigeria was irrevocable. Senate passed a new law banning same sex marriage in Nigeria yesterday, stipulating a 14-year jail term for offenders. Gay clubs were also banned from operating in the country.

At a meeting with Janetzke –Wenzel on Thursday, the Senate President reiterated that any aid for the country tied to endorsement of same sex marriage is not welcome.“It is unfair to tie whatever assistance or aide to Nigeria to the laws we make in the over all interest of our citizens. Otherwise we are tempted to believe that such assistance comes with ulterior motives.

“If the assistance is aimed at mortgaging our future, values, custom and ways of life, then they should as well keep their assistance”. Meanwhile, Senator Mark has assured foreign missions in Nigeria of their safety as the Federal Government has risen up to the occasion to check the menace of security threat.

“There is no need to panic or contemplate leaving Nigeria on account of security. We are doing our best to contain the situation. Recent events have shown that we are capable of handling the situation.” He noted that Nigeria was aware of the challenging security situation and was exploring all reasonable local and international avenues to tackle the situation.

“I can say without fear of contradiction that our efforts are yielding results in dealing with the security situation, so there is no need for anybody or mission to contemplate leaving Nigeria, we shall overcome”, the President of the Senate stated.

David Mark reminded the Ambassador that Nigeria and Germany have a long history of bilateral relationship which he canvassed, should be improved upon for the benefit of both nations. He also canvassed exchange educational and legislative programmes that would further cement the good relationship between Germany and Nigeria. Earlier, Janetzke –Wenzel requested for stronger economic ties with Nigeria in order to boost the economy of both nations.

She was pleased to note Europe that was hitherto ravaged by wars has now become a haven for peace, economic and political cooperation for the good of all.