His comments sparked controversy, prompting Sheikh Aminu Daurawa, Commander-General of the Hisbah Board, to clarify that Ahmed''s views were personal, not reflective of the board''s stance. Daurawa reaffirmed the board''s rigorous crackdown on LGBTQ activities, particularly ''Yan daudu'' clubs in Kano.

The Kano State Hisbah Board has distanced itself from Idris Ahmed Gama, an official caught promoting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) rights.

Daurawa warned NGOs supporting LGBTQ causes to cease operations in the state. He also announced disciplinary action against Ahmed, transferring his case to the board''s disciplinary unit.

In response, Ahmed expressed ignorance about LGBTQ issues and apologized for his actions, seeking forgiveness from the Hisbah Board.

SaharaReporters earlier reported that speaking in a video clip, Gama shared his personal journey and evolving perspective on LGBTQ issues.

"My first encounter with this situation was very shocking," Gama began, reflecting on his initial exposure to LGBTQ matters.

"But now, having experienced it again, I realise they are people like me, human beings deserving of respect and dignity," he continued, highlighting a shift in his understanding.

Gama emphasised the importance of inclusivity, likening LGBTQ individuals to family: "I see them now as my sisters and brothers," he stated emphatically.

Regarding Hisbah''s recent reports on LGBTQ issues, Gama praised their thoroughness and underscored the need for equality: "We are all human and deserve equal treatment," he asserted, addressing the disparities in treatment that exist.

Drawing on a familial analogy, Gama criticised unequal treatment: "Treating one group poorly while favouring another causes gaps and perpetuates injustice," he lamented, urging for a fair and equitable approach.

When asked about the handling of LGBTQ persons in Nigeria, Gama stressed parity with other community members: "They should be treated with the same respect and consideration as any other Nigerian," he insisted, expressing confidence in Hisbah''s commitment to inclusivity.

Gama, however, called on lawmakers to review existing laws: "Our legislators must consider amendments to ensure equal rights for all Nigerians, including LGBTQ individuals," he urged, highlighting the need for legislative reform.

Expressing gratitude to the event organisers, Gama acknowledged Hisbah''s role: "I thank the organisers for allowing me to represent Hisbah, an organisation that understands the importance of inclusivity," he remarked proudly.

"This is a significant achievement, and I am honoured to be part of this advocacy," he concluded, highlighting the importance of continued efforts towards equality.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian government earlier dismissed a report claiming that the Samoa partnership agreement signed on June 28 endorsed the rights of LGBTQ people in Nigeria.

It also rejected the claims that Nigeria would receive $150 billion for entering into the deal.

The Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu, clarified this at a press conference in Abuja on Saturday.

The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Bill was signed into law in Nigeria on January 7, 2014, by then-President Goodluck Jonathan.

The law criminalises public displays of affection between same-sex couples.

The law imposes a 14-year prison sentence on anyone who [enters] into a same-sex marriage contract or civil union. It also imposes a 10-year sentence on individuals or groups, including religious leaders, who witness, abet, and aid the solemnization of a same-sex marriage or union.

It imposes a 10-year prison sentence on those who directly or indirectly make [a] public show of [a] same-sex amorous relationship and anyone who registers, operates, or participates in gay clubs, societies, and organizations, including supporters of those groups.

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