Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved a bill seeking to criminalise same-sex marriage and other “immoral” acts in the state.
The governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Dawakin-Tofa, confirmed the move on Friday. He said it followed the 31st Executive Council meeting at the Government House Annexe in Kwankwasiyya City.
Sharia Law and Morality in Kano
Kano, one of Nigeria’s largest northern states, runs a dual system where Sharia law coexists with the Nigerian Constitution. Sharia was introduced in the early 2000s, and since then, Kano governments have enforced strict rules on morality and culture.
Nigeria already has the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014. It bans same-sex unions and related activities nationwide, with penalties of up to 14 years in prison. But states like Kano, guided by Islamic law, often adopt stricter moral codes.
Governor Yusuf’s Stand
Governor Yusuf said his administration would not compromise Islamic values.
“Under no circumstance will we allow acts that contradict our religion and traditions to take root in Kano. This government is duty-bound to protect the moral integrity of our society,” he stated.
The proposed bill will ban same-sex marriage and practices locally called Madugo and Liwadi. The state described them as forbidden. Offenders will face tough penalties if convicted.
What’s Next
Yusuf urged the State House of Assembly to treat the bill urgently. He said it was crucial to the moral and social health of Kano.
If passed, the law will tighten morality rules in Kano, reinforcing Sharia-based restrictions already in place across northern Nigeria.
