Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has greenlit a bill for the State House of Assembly that would criminalize same-sex marriage and certain practices viewed as contrary to local culture and religion, underscoring his administration's commitment to preserving Islamic values in the northern Nigerian state.

The approval came during the 31st Executive Council meeting at the Government House Annex in Kwankwasiyya City, as announced by spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa. The proposed legislation targets same-sex unions along with practices known locally as Madugo and Liwadi, which officials describe as forbidden under Islamic teachings.

If enacted, those engaging in or promoting such activities could face severe penalties, though specifics on sentencing were not detailed in the statement. Yusuf emphasized that his government remains steadfast in upholding Kano's religious and cultural heritage and expressed optimism that assembly members would prioritize the bill, citing its role in safeguarding the state's social fabric.

"Under no circumstance will we allow acts that contradict our religion and traditions to take root in Kano. This government is duty-bound to protect the moral integrity of our society." - Yusuf

Nigeria's federal framework already prohibits same-sex marriage nationwide through the 2014 Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, which imposes up to 14 years in prison for offenders and bans related advocacy. Kano's initiative builds on this by addressing state-specific concerns, aligning with broader efforts in conservative northern regions to enforce Sharia-influenced norms.

Similar measures have appeared in other states, though enforcement varies amid human rights critiques from groups like Amnesty International, which argue such laws infringe on privacy and equality rights.

No immediate reactions came from opposition figures or civil society, but the bill's passage could spark debate in Kano, a commercial hub with a population exceeding four million, where cultural conservatism holds sway. The assembly, dominated by Yusuf's New Nigeria Peoples Party allies, is expected to review the proposal soon.