The Nigerian Inter-faith Network has called for the immediate closure of Goethe Institute in Lagos over contravention of the nation’s laws on same-sex relationships.
Convener of the group, Barrister George Nwadike, in a statement issued in Abuja yesterday, urged the federal government to take action against what he described as “consistent moral degradation of Nigeria’s socio-cultural and religious values” by Goethe Institute in Lagos.
He said at the centre of the controversy are two films, “Everything will be fine” by Angelina Maccarone and “No Hard Feelings” by Faraz Shariat, being screened as part of the institute’s community outreach series.
According to Nwadike, these films feature “heavy LGBTQ themes” that directly conflict with Nigerian legislation, particularly the Same Sex Prohibition Act of 2013.
The Act stipulates severe penalties for individuals who participate in or promote gay-related activities, including a potential 10-year prison sentence.
Nwadike argued that by screening these films, the Goethe Institute was not only flouting Nigerian law but also disrespecting the religious and cultural norms of its host country.
He warned that activities of the institute had a potential to ignite civil unrest if swift action was not taken.
Nwadike suggested that the institute’s activities could cause “disaffection and a breakdown of law and order” across the nation, given the sensitivity surrounding LGBTQ issues in Nigeria.
Peoplesmind
