Story from Faridat Ene SULEIMAN, Abuja
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commended the Vatican for banning all Catholic churches nationwide from conducting same-sex marriages.
Vatican City, a city-state surrounded by Rome, Italy is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.
This was disclosed by the spokesperson of the National Orientation Agency, Mr Paul Odenyi, in an interview with The PUNCH on Tuesday.
He added that this is in line with the law signed by former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan in 2014, which criminalises same-sex relationships, opposing western pressure over gay rights and prompting worldwide criticism.
“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 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,”
Odenyi said.
He also stated that “So many laws are being flouted but when those found wanting are caught, they must be ready to face the consequences. If a person is in a gay relationship whether on the internet (sic), it is illegal and when caught, he will be punished”.
Furthermore, he charged Nigerian youths to uphold and value traditions, and not to be misled by foreign trends.
“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.”
Odenyi also addressed the rising issue of cross-dressers on social media, saying it is a result of poor implementation of the law. The law commands penalties of up to 14 years in prison and bans gay marriages or relationships
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