Leadnaija
President Bola Tinubu has approved a comprehensive revision of the Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, introducing explicit prohibitions on behaviors deemed contrary to military ethics. According to Punch News, The updated regulations, signed on December 16, 2024, encompass a range of activities, including homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, body piercing, tattooing, disorderly conduct, and intoxication, both on and off duty.
Section 26 of the revised document states: “An officer must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, and bestiality. He/she is not to belong to, or engage in activities of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Trans, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual or Agender, Two-Spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) group and cross-dressing, amongst others.“Tap Here for the Full Story
Additionally, the regulations prohibit officers from engaging in amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professional boundaries within the military hierarchy. Officers are also mandated to fulfill financial obligations promptly, including vehicle licensing and insurance, and are forbidden from joining secret societies or political parties
The directive further restricts officers from engaging in private business ventures or misusing government property for personal gain, underscoring the expectation of unwavering dedication to official duties. Acceptance of gifts or favors from junior officers or enlisted personnel is also prohibited to prevent conflicts of interest and maintain the integrity of the service.
While the document outlines these prohibitions, it does not specify the disciplinary measures or punishments for violations, leaving the enforcement mechanisms to be detailed by the respective branches of the armed forces.
This development aligns with Nigeria’s existing legal framework concerning LGBTQ+ activities. The Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2013 criminalizes same-sex relationships and public displays of same-sex affection, reflecting the country’s conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
The revised military regulations reinforce these national laws within the armed forces, aiming to uphold what are described as traditional values and discipline among military personnel. However, these measures have been met with criticism from international human rights organizations, which argue that such policies infringe upon individual rights and freedoms.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the complexities of balancing cultural values with human rights considerations, the implementation of these regulations within the military will be closely monitored by both domestic and international observers.Tap Here for the Full Story
