Today, President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan, signed a bill that makes same-sex relationships illegal.
According to Voice of America, the bill contains penalties up to 14 years in prison, and has banned membership into gay rights organizations.
In countries like the United States, homosexuality is beginning to modernize itself, with marriage being an option in some states, while some African countries the law is being updated with heavier punishments.
According to Reuters , some Western countries, as well as Britain have threated to cut aid to governments who pass anti-homosexual laws. This has helped delay any bills being passed because some nations are dependent like Uganda, however Nigeria has a $2 million barrel of oil per day budget.
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said, “"Beyond even prohibiting same sex marriage, this law dangerously restricts freedom of assembly ... and expression for all Nigerians,” according to Reuters.
This bill was passed in May by the National Assembly, and has been delayed by President Jonathan until now.
Photo Courtesy of WikiMedia Commons
