Kebbi Perm. Sec. apologizes for false claims on Homosexuality in Sokoto, Kebbi

Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, the Permanent Secretary of Cabinet Affairs in Kebbi State, has formally retracted his earlier statement regarding the prevalence of homosexuality and lesbianism in Sokoto and Kebbi States.

Kigo made the controversial remarks during a public lecture in Birnin Kebbi in March 2025, where he presented misleading statistics about the alleged number of gay and lesbian groups in the two states. His claims were quickly debunked, leading to widespread backlash.

In response to the false allegations, the Kebbi State Government suspended Kigo from his position and referred the matter to the relevant religious authorities for further scrutiny.

Under the guidance of the Kebbi Council of Ulama, Kigo was summoned to substantiate his claims. During a news briefing in Birnin Kebbi, Kigo admitted that his statement was completely unfounded and apologized for the error.

“I, Nasiru Abubakar Kigo, realize that I made a mistake and offended the sensibilities of Muslims in Sokoto, Kebbi, and other places. I deeply regret the false statistics I presented regarding homosexuality and lesbianism. I had no basis for these figures, and I sincerely apologize for the harm caused,” Kigo said, urging those who had shared the offensive video clips to delete them.

Abdulrahman Isa Jega, the Chairman of the Kebbi State Council of Ulama, called on members of the Ulama, Islamic clerics, students, and the public to be mindful of their words. He stressed the importance of considering the potential consequences of public statements before making them.

Kigo’s apology has brought an end to the controversy, but the incident serves as a reminder of the need for caution when addressing sensitive issues in public forums.