Dr. Nasiru Kigo Apologizes for False Homosexuality Claims Against Sokoto, Kebbi Communities

By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbi

The Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Affairs, Kebbi State, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, has retracted his statement on the prevalence of homosexuality and lesbianism in Sokoto and Kebbi States. Kigo had presented false statistics on the number of registered gay and lesbian groups in the two states during a public lecture in Birnin Kebbi during Ramadan.

In a news briefing convened by the Kebbi Council of Ulama, Kigo unequivocally withdrew his declaration and tendered an unreserved apology to the governments and people of Sokoto and Kebbi States, as well as the entire Muslim population.

"I, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, have realized that I made a mistake and offended the sensibilities of Muslims in Sokoto and Kebbi States, and in other places at a Lecture held in Birnin Kebbi on 15/3/2025," Kigo said. "I am highly remorseful and seek forgiveness on the statistics concerning lesbianism and homosexuality. I have no basis for the statistics; a mistake has been committed, coupled with the negative image therein."

 Dr. Nasir Abubakar Kigo

Kigo also appealed to those with offensive video clips to delete them permanently. His apology follows an investigation by the Kebbi Council of Ulama, which found his claims baseless and untrue.

Sheikh Abdurrahman Isa Jega, Kebbi State Chairman of the Council of Ulama, emphasized the importance of accountability in speech. "Nasiru Abubakar Kigo is our member; he has accepted his wrongdoing and apologized. I am appealing to all members of the Ulama Council, Islamic Clerics, Students, and the public to watch their tongue in whatever they intend to say."

Sheikh Umar Isa, Chairman of the Kebbi State Zakkat, Sadaqat, and Waqaf Board, highlighted the broader impact of Kigo's actions. "What Kigo did affects all Muslims, not only in Sokoto and Kebbi but the entire nation. That's why the Ulama Council resolved to call and present him before newsmen to retract his statement and tender an apology."

Kigo's retraction and apology bring closure to the controversy, emphasizing the need for responsible communication within the community.