Tinubu To Approve Same- Sex Marriage? FG Faces Condemnation From Kastina Elders Over Hardship, LGBTQ Rights
The Katsina State Elders Forum (KSEF) has raised significant concerns about the Federal Government of Nigeria’ s approach to critical issues affecting the region, including ongoing security crises, pervasive poverty, and recent policy developments regarding LGBT rights. Malam Aliyu Mohammed, the secretary of the forum, delivered a stern critique of the federal administration, detailing the severe and persistent challenges faced by Katsina State.
KSEF expressed deep frustration over the federal government’ s handling of the security situation in Katsina, where the state has been plagued by relentless banditry. According to Aliyu, the lack of effective federal intervention has exacerbated the suffering of the people. He described how bandits have repeatedly attacked communities, resulting in numerous deaths, the destruction of properties, and the seizure of farmland. These acts of violence have left residents living in constant fear and have devastated local economies. Despite efforts by the Katsina State government, including the establishment of the Security Watch Corps, which has been working to protect the populace, the federal response has been criticized as insufficient. Aliyu pointed out that these community security forces are hampered by their inability to carry sophisticated weapons, unlike the well- armed bandits they face. He also criticized the federal soldiers, who he believes are not performing adequately in combating the banditry that is rampant in Northern Nigeria. The forum has called for the introduction of specialized military units, such as jungle battalions, to be stationed in the forests where bandits operate, with the hope that this would lead to more effective counteraction against the criminal elements.
The KSEF also took issue with the federal government’ s alleged recent actions regarding LGBT rights. They expressed strong disapproval of any policy changes that might support same- sex marriage, arguing that such policies are out of step with the predominantly Muslim values of Katsina State, where around 98 percent of the population adheres to Islam. The forum stated that not only does Islam oppose same- sex marriage, but such policies are also contrary to the broader Christian teachings on this issue. The Elders Forum has called on President Tinubu to reverse these decisions, emphasizing that such policies are met with widespread disapproval across the country.
Additionally, the forum highlighted the severe economic hardships facing the people of Katsina. Aliyu painted a grim picture of widespread poverty and hunger in the region, attributing these conditions to the federal government’ s failure to address fundamental needs. He noted that many residents are reduced to begging due to a lack of basic necessities, which is exacerbated by the economic turmoil in the region. The KSEF’ s statements reflect a broader concern about the inadequate federal response to the economic plight of the northern states, which have struggled with poverty and underdevelopment for years.
In light of these issues, the Katsina State Elders Forum has called for immediate and decisive action from the federal government. They have urged President Tinubu to take steps to improve security, address poverty, and reconsider the recent policy decisions regarding LGBT rights. Furthermore, they have suggested that the President should consider appointing more effective advisers to better tackle these critical issues and provide the necessary support to the region.
In summary, the KSEF’ s critique underscores a profound dissatisfaction with the federal government’ s performance in addressing security, economic, and social issues in Katsina State. Their appeals reflect a desperate need for urgent federal intervention and policy adjustments to alleviate the suffering of their communities.
