Gay marriage, along with any groups that publicly support LGBT rights, might be officially banned from Nigeria.
The Nigerian House of Representatives voted Thursday, stating their support for a bill that also doles out up to 10 years in prison for any same-sex couple that displays "public shows" of affection, the Associated Press reported.
The proposed legislation bans religious leaders from overseeing any gay or lesbian marriage in the mosques and churches of Africa's most heavily populated country. LGBT couples who manage to marry might be sentenced to 14 years in prison, and anyone who helps them along in these endeavors are also fair game to serve time behind bars. Gay advocacy groups, or anyone caught in a romantic act of homosexual love also could get thrown in jail for up to 10 years.
Homosexuals already encounter daily public ridicule and possible prison sentences for their sexual orientation in Nigeria, according to the Associated Press. Gay sex has been banned in Nigera since British colonial rule. The largely Christian and Muslim nation, although divided by their religious beliefs, all agree on one thing: homosexuality is a sin.
Now, the bill has gone to President Goodluck Jonathan, in the final step before the proposal potentially goes forward into legislation. Spectators are not sure whether or not Jonathan will sign the measure, but say that there is a strong chance he will, especially given the Nigerian public's general disdain towards gays.
European nations that do business with Nigeria, including Great Britain, have already threatened to sever monetary ties with the African country.
But the British government might not hold much clout, as they give very little financial aid to the oil-rich country that is a top supplier of crude petrol to the United States.
The bill currently sits on Jonathan's desk, awaiting approval or filibuster.
