The Permanent Secretary of Cabinet Affairs in Kebbi State, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, has publicly apologized for his false claims regarding the prevalence of homosexuality and lesbianism in Sokoto and Kebbi states. Kigo’s remarks, made during a Ramadan lecture in Birnin Kebbi, cited fabricated statistics on the existence of gay and lesbian groups operating within the two states, which led to widespread outrage.
Following investigations, it was revealed that the figures Kigo cited were entirely fabricated, prompting immediate action from the Kebbi State Government. Kigo was suspended from his position and referred to the State Council of Ulama for further scrutiny and review.
Addressing the public at a press conference on Sunday in Birnin Kebbi, a contrite Kigo admitted his mistake and sought forgiveness from the Muslim community across Sokoto, Kebbi, and the nation at large. He acknowledged, “I, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, have realized the grave mistake I made. I regret the offense my comments caused to the Muslim community in Sokoto and Kebbi States and across the nation. I had no evidence for the statistics I quoted, and I take full responsibility. I sincerely seek forgiveness for the misinformation and the negative image it may have created.”
Kigo also made a plea for those sharing videos of his controversial remarks to delete them in a bid to prevent further damage.
In response, Sheikh Abdurrahman Isa Jega, Chairman of the Kebbi State Council of Ulama, confirmed that the council had received Kigo’s apology and offered counsel. Sheikh Jega also urged other public officials and scholars to exercise caution with their words, especially on sensitive matters. “Kigo is one of us, and he has acknowledged his wrongdoing. This is a reminder to all of us that words matter, especially on sensitive issues,” he said.
Sheikh Umar Isa Magaji, Chairman of the Kebbi State Zakkat, Sadaqat, and Waqf Board, also weighed in on the matter, stating that the statement had far-reaching consequences not only for Sokoto and Kebbi but for the Muslim community as a whole. “What he said hurt not just Sokoto and Kebbi states but the Muslim community as a whole. It was necessary to act swiftly to prevent the spread of misinformation,” he emphasized.
Kebbi Permanent Secretary Apologizes for False Claims on Homosexuality in Sokoto and Kebbi States
