From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for banning certain un-African and unorthodox lifestyles, such as same-gender sexual liaisons and tattooing, among other unacceptable practices, in the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The group described the ban as a bold effort to promote, defend, and uplift revered African traditions and cultures, as emphasised in Chapter Two of the Constitution, which serves as a major plank of governance in modern times.
In a statement by its national coordinator, Emmanuel Nwubiko, HURIWA called on all Nigerians to stand by the President and support these decisions aimed at defending the respected African cultural value system, which does not detract from any provisions of Chapter Four of the 1999 Constitution. HURIWA also expressed optimism that these codes and ethical directives would enhance professionalism and excellence in the Nigerian military.
The association stated that information in the Nigerian media suggests that, in a bid to properly administer the Nigerian military as a fully professionalised and disciplined institution, President Tinubu, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian military, has approved the immediate enforcement of a total ban on homosexuality and tattooing. Nigerian military personnel have also been explicitly banned from engaging in acts such as homosexuality, cross-dressing, bestiality, and other behaviours considered unethical under newly revised regulations.
According to the extant updated rules governing the conduct of military operatives and officers, several provisions also prohibit tattooing, body piercing, disorderly behaviour, and drunkenness, whether on or off duty.
The revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024, outlines these prohibitions.
A copy of the document states, “An officer must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, and bestiality. He/she is not to belong to, or engage in activities of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Trans, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual or Agender, Two-Spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) group and cross-dressing, among others.”
Additionally, the directive bans military personnel from tattooing or piercing any part of their bodies, engaging in public brawls, or being intoxicated while on or off duty.
The conditions also address inappropriate relationships within the ranks, forbidding officers from forming amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses. “An officer shall not engage in any amorous relationship with any soldier/rating/airman/airwoman, fellow officer’s or soldier’s/rating’s/airman’s/airwoman’s spouse,” the document states.
Other notable rules include timely payment of financial obligations such as vehicle licences and insurance, a ban on joining secret societies or political parties, and restrictions on private business ventures. Officers are also warned against misusing government property or accepting gifts and favours from juniors.
“An officer shall not engage in private business… or use government property, his name, position, and connection in ways that interfere with his official duties or bring discredit to the service,” the document further states.
While the revised code outlines strict behavioural standards, the disciplinary measures for those found violating these rules were not specified.
In its response, leading human rights defender HURIWA said these decisions by the President are in total compliance with relevant provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, Chapter Two, Section 21, which provides thus: “The State SHALL (a) protect, preserve, and promote the Nigerian cultures which enhance human dignity and are consistent with the fundamental objectives as provided for in this chapter, and (b) encourage the development of technological and scientific studies which enhance cultural values.”