The Nigerian Inter-faith Network has demanded the immediate closure of Goethe Institute in Lagos, citing contravention of Nigeria’s laws on same-sex relationships. In a statement released yesterday in Abuja, the group’s convener, Barrister George Nwadike, called for government action against the institute’s “consistent moral degradation of Nigeria’s socio-cultural and religious values.”
The controversy centers on two films, “Everything Will Be Fine” by Angelina Maccarone and “No Hard Feelings” by Faraz Shariat, which were screened as part of the institute’s community outreach series. According to Nwadike, the films feature “heavy LGBTQ themes” that directly conflict with Nigerian legislation, specifically the Same Sex Prohibition Act of 2013.
The Act stipulates severe penalties for individuals participating in or promoting gay-related activities, including potential 10-year prison sentences. Nwadike argued that the Goethe Institute’s decision to screen these films not only flouts Nigerian law but also disrespects the religious and cultural norms of its host country.
Nwadike further warned that the institute’s activities could potentially ignite civil unrest if swift action is not taken. He suggested that the controversy surrounding the films could cause “disaffection and a breakdown of law and order” across the nation, given the sensitivity surrounding LGBTQ issues in Nigeria.
