The National Orientation Agency has hailed the Vatican for banning all Catholic churches nationwide from conducting same sex marriages.
The Spokesman for the NOA, Mr. Paul Odenyi, said this during an interview on Tuesday.
Odenyi added that the directive of the Vatican corresponds with the spirit of Nigeria which outlawed same sex marriage over seven years ago.
The NOA spokesman urged Nigerian youths to respect cherished traditions and not to be deceived by international trends
He said, “The law today is that gay marriage is illegal and that is what should be our orientation and that is the rule. As an agency of government that is what we preach and that is what we think is correct. I am proud that the Catholic Church has made it clear because it seemed there was confusion on the matter. This matter has now been put to rest.
“Marriage is between a man and a woman. As an agency, we must continue to preach that the law continues to be followed. Gay marriage and relationships are illegal.”
On the rising trend of cross-dressers on social media, Odenyi said it was caused by poor enforcement of the law.
The NOA spokesman asked youths not to be polluted by such social media trends.
“So many laws are being flouted but when those found wanting are caught, they must be ready to face the consequences. If person is in gay relationship whether on internet is illegal and when caught, he will be punished,” he said.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan had in 2014 signed a law that criminalises same-sex relationships, defying western pressure over gay rights and provoking international criticism.
The law prescribes penalties of up to 14 years in prison and bans gay marriage, same-sex “amorous relationships” and membership of gay rights groups.
