Federal Ministry of Education has distanced itself from a purported school debate organised by the Creative Africa Initiative, titled “Same-Sex Marriage Should be Legalised in Nigeria.”
In a statement on Saturday, August 10, 2024, the ministry’s director of press and public relations, Folasade Boriowo, said the organisation forged the ministry’s letterhead paper, adding that it has nothing to do with the purported debate.
“It has come to our attention that a forged letter, using the Ministry’s letterhead, was issued by this organisation. This forged document, which proposes a debate on the topic “Same-Sex Marriage Should Be Legalised in Nigeria,” has raised serious concerns,” the statement read.
“The letter in question features a reference number linked to the now-defunct Basic and Secondary Education Department, which ceased to exist since June 17, 2021
“Additionally, the letterhead used in the forgery displays an outdated reference number, and the font appears to have been superimposed on old letterhead paper
“The proposed debate topic is highly sensitive and contrary to the cultural and religious values upheld by the majority of Nigerians, as well as to extant Nigerian laws. The Ministry emphasises that this debate could potentially disrupt public peace and societal norms, leading to unnecessary tension and division.
“Furthermore, the Ministry confirms that the 2024 debate, yet to be implemented by the Senior Secondary Education Department, does not correspond with the content or scheduling referenced in the forged letter, which incorrectly calls for an event in April 2025.
“We urge all stakeholders to disregard the fake communication and await official announcements from the Ministry regarding future debates and other educational initiatives.”
