The Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has declared that his administration will not accept any group believed to be supporting and advocating for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights in the state.
The governor issued the directive following a report by Kano Times about a non-governmental organization called WISE, which allegedly promotes same-sex marriage in the state.
On Sunday in Kano, State Commissioner for Information Baba Halilu Dantiye addressed concerns regarding an alleged agreement by the Federal Government on LGBTQ rights, disclosing this to newsmen.
Dantiye emphasized that the state government will reject any agreement that supports the activities of homosexuals, citing their conflict with Kano’s cultural norms and ethical standards.
The commissioner stated that the governor has instructed the Hisbah Board to take strong action against organizations advocating for LGBT rights in the state.
He said, “I spoke with the governor, and he expressed his disapproval of the said agreement, even though it has not yet been confirmed. He assured me that there is no room for LGBT activities in Kano.
“As you know, 98% of Kano’s population are Muslims by faith, and our religion is against this immorality, so we can’t accept it.”
Regarding allegations of groups promoting LGBT activities in the state, the commissioner affirmed that the government has acknowledged citizens’ concerns. Accordingly, the governor has directed Hisbah to investigate and address these groups.
Dantiye additionally mentioned ongoing discussions with religious leaders regarding measures to address these activities within the state.
He added, “We also discussed this with the governor, and he directed Hisbah to investigate and crack down on them. We will take legal action as appropriate.”
Kano Times recently reported the emergence of WISE, a pioneering non-governmental organization in Kano State. WISE stands out as the first NGO in the state dedicated to advocating for the rights of lesbian, bisexual, and queer (LBQ+) individuals.