A bill passed through the Nigerian House of Representatives last Thursday outlaws gay marriage, any groups that publicly defend or support gay rights, along with up to 10-year prison sentences for any same-sex couple that displays "public shows of affection."
"Any person who registers, operates or participates in gay clubs, societies and organizations directly or indirectly, makes a public show of a same-sex amorous relationship commits an offense and shall be liable to a term of 10 years imprisonment," the bill reads.
Anti-gay sentiment is widespread in the country. Many LGBT people encounter public humiliation daily, walking the streets in fear of persecution.
Many of Nigeria's same-sex couples have responded to the overwhelming support for the bill with varying levels of sadness, disdain and anger.
In a recent DW All Africa article, Rashidi Williams, director of Nigeria's Queer Alliance rights group, told the news service that the legislation is simply unconstitutional.
"[The bill] takes away the fundamental rights accorded to Nigerians under the constitution," he said.
He also noted the danger that people who are merely guilty by association face; any religious figures, friends, or family that marry an LGBT couple could be up against almost 14 years in prison.
"If one just shows some alliance with persons from the LGBT community, then they risk going to jail for 10 years," he told DW.
Human rights lawyer Jiti Ogunye told AFP that the bill was a superfluous hoax, drawn up under unnecessary legal pretenses.
"I call it legislative showmanship," he explained. "This is really, really not a pressing national issue."
Williams agreed, asking, "Why is the government focusing on same-sex marriages when no one in the country is advocating for it?"
The legislation now lays in wait for Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan's approval or denial, in the final step before the bill could become an enforced law.
British Prime Minister David Cameron claimed that England might withdraw aid from countries that do not legally recognize gay rights, DW reported.
Many Nigerians, including Human Resource expert Femi Olabisi, have said they support the bill. Most cite religious or cultural backings for their reinforcement of the law-the nation is largely divided between Muslims and Christians.
Olabisi tweeted his endorsement of the bill on Sunday, saying:
I won't mind been solo on this. I endorse National Assembly's banning of gay marriage in Nigeria #SameSexMarriage
— Femi Olabisi (@Femiolas) June 2, 2013
