Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf approves bill to prohibit same-sex marriage and immoral practices, upholding the state’s Islamic and cultural values.
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has formally approved the submission of a bill to the State House of Assembly seeking to outlaw same-sex marriage and immoral practices within the state.
The move reflects the administration’s commitment to upholding Kano’s cultural and religious heritage while reinforcing moral standards in society.
The announcement was made through a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Friday, September 12, 2025.
Governor Yusuf disclosed his approval while presiding over the 31st Executive Council meeting, held at the Government House Annex in Kwankwasiyya City.
According to the statement, the bill is aimed at safeguarding the moral fabric of Kano society and preventing the spread of behaviors considered incompatible with Islamic teachings and local traditions.
Governor Yusuf emphasized that his administration would not compromise on the values and teachings of Islam.
He stressed that Kano must continue to preserve its religious and cultural identity, noting that the bill explicitly prohibits same-sex marriage and other practices locally referred to as Madugo and Liwadi.
These customs are viewed by the government as morally unacceptable and contrary to the state’s societal norms.
“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,” Governor Yusuf declared during the council meeting.
He further urged the State House of Assembly to consider the bill with the urgency it deserves, citing its importance to the moral and social wellbeing of the state’s residents.
The proposed legislation aligns with national laws already in place. On January 7, 2014, former President Goodluck Jonathan signed the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, which criminalizes same-sex unions and related activities nationwide.
The law prescribes penalties of up to 14 years in prison for individuals found guilty of engaging in or promoting same-sex marriage and immoral practices.
Governor Yusuf’s bill is designed to reinforce these provisions within Kano State, ensuring stricter adherence at the local level.
Legal experts note that the new bill, once passed, will provide Kano authorities with a stronger legal framework to prosecute offenders.
This is intended to prevent the normalization of behaviors considered antithetical to the state’s religious and cultural principles.
The administration maintains that the law will protect the younger generation from influences deemed harmful to societal morals.
Community leaders and religious authorities in Kano have welcomed the governor’s initiative, describing it as a proactive step toward safeguarding family values and cultural traditions.
According to these leaders, the enforcement of such a law will ensure that the principles of Islam, which guide everyday life in Kano, continue to shape social conduct and public behavior.
Governor Yusuf’s focus on banning same-sex marriage and immoral practices also underscores the broader objectives of his administration, which includes promoting ethical governance and protecting societal norms.
By explicitly naming practices such as Madugo and Liwadi, the government seeks to close loopholes that may allow culturally unacceptable activities to flourish under the guise of modernity or foreign influence.
The bill also aims to educate the public about the government’s stance on morality and religious adherence.
Public awareness campaigns are expected to accompany the legislation once enacted, helping citizens understand both the rationale behind the law and the consequences of violating it.
Authorities believe that educating the populace is crucial for ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of accountability.
While the move is largely supported within Kano, some human rights observers argue that strict legislation could lead to social tensions.
However, Governor Yusuf remains steadfast in his belief that the law is necessary for protecting the state’s ethical standards.
“The moral integrity of Kano cannot be compromised. We must uphold our traditions and the teachings of Islam at all costs,” he stated.
In conclusion, the Kano State bill to outlaw same-sex marriage and immoral practices demonstrates the administration’s commitment to preserving the state’s cultural and religious identity.
By taking decisive action, Governor Yusuf aims to ensure that Kano remains a society grounded in ethical values, moral responsibility, and adherence to Islamic teachings.
Once enacted, the law will strengthen the legal framework against activities deemed harmful to the moral fabric of the state, reflecting a careful balance between governance, religion, and societal norms.