Nigeria’s Samoa Agreement, a $150 billion deal, sparks controversy over alleged LGBTQ clauses, raising concerns about sovereignty and cultural values amid clarifications from government officials.

In a move that has stirred national outrage and fierce debate, Nigeria’s federal government is under fire for allegedly signing a $150 billion Samoa Deal, purportedly including clauses promoting LGBTQ rights. Named after the Pacific Island of Samoa where it was signed on November 15, 2023, the agreement has ignited a storm of controversy among clerics, rights activists, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across Nigeria.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, confirmed the ratification of the agreement during a European Union (EU) reception in Abuja on July 1, 2024. However, his media assistant, Bolaji Adebiyi, swiftly clarified that the agreement was strictly about economic development and excluded any references to LGBTQ rights or same-sex marriage.

Yet, skepticism persists. Legal expert Sonnie Ekwowusi criticized the agreement, calling it “nauseating” and a threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty.

“The Samoa Agreement, named after the Pacific Island, Samoa, celebrates perversity. Certain Articles of the Agreement especially Articles 2.5 and 29.5 legalise LGBT, transgenderism, abortion, teen sexual abuse, and perversity in African countries,”

Ekwowusi wrote

He questioned whether Nigerian officials truly understood the implications of the deal they signed  .

The controversy hinges on whether the agreement, which was not initially signed by Nigeria and 34 other countries in November 2023, includes provisions that undermine Nigeria’s cultural and religious values. Despite assurances from government officials, including the spokesman for the Attorney General, Kamarudeen Ogundele, doubts remain about the nature and intent of the deal .

Reflecting on Nigeria’s historical stance against same-sex relationships, Abubakar Akande of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) reaffirmed their position:

“Our stance remains the same since the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. We cannot agree to what is against the injunction of our Creator, Allah, on this matter, and which also disrespects Nigeria’s sovereignty”

The Samoa Agreement controversy highlights a critical intersection of international diplomacy, economic development, and cultural values. As the debate unfolds, it raises important questions about Nigeria’s autonomy in the face of global economic pressures and the true cost of international agreements.