By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The Federal Ministry of Education has completely disassociated itself from a recent purported debate organized by the Creative Africa Initiative.
The debate centres around whether or not marriage between persons of the same sex should be legally permitted.
A statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs Folashade Boriowo on Saturday said the Ministry “categorically denies any involvement with the Creative Africa Initiative or the purported debate it seeks to promote”.
It therefore urged “all stakeholders to disregard the fake communication and await official announcements from the Ministry regarding future debates and other educational initiatives”
The statement further reads:
“It has come to our attention that a forged letter, using the Ministry’s letterhead, was issued by this organization. This forged document, which proposes a debate on the topic “Same-Sex Marriage Should Be Legalized in Nigeria,” has raised serious concerns.
“The letter in question features a reference number linked to the now-defunct Basic and Secondary Education Department, which ceased to exist since June 17, 2021. Additionally, the letterhead used in the forgery displays an outdated reference number, and the font appears to have been superimposed on old letterhead paper.
“The proposed debate topic is highly sensitive and contrary to the cultural and religious values upheld by the majority of Nigerians, as well as to extant Nigerian laws. The Ministry emphasizes that this debate could potentially disrupt public peace and societal norms, leading to unnecessary tension and division.
“Furthermore, the Ministry confirms that the 2024 debate, yet to be implemented by the Senior Secondary Education Department, does not correspond with the content or scheduling referenced in the forged letter, which incorrectly calls for an event in April 2025”.
