The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for banning ?certain unAfrican and unorthodox lifestyles such as same-gender sexual liaisons and tattooing amongst other unacceptable practices from the Armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.?

According to the extant updated rules governing the conduct of military operatives and officers, several provisions also prohibit tattooing, body piercing, disorderly behavior, and drunkenness, whether on or off duty.

The revised Harmonized Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024, outlines these prohibitions.

A copy of ?he 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.?

Additionally, the directive bans military personnel from tattooing and piercing any part of their bodies, engaging in public brawls, or being intoxicated while on or off duty.

The conditions also address inappropriate relationships within the ranks, forbidding officers from forming amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses. ?An officer shall not engage in any amorous relationship with any soldier/rating/airman/airwoman, fellow officer?s or soldier?s/rating?s/airmen?s/air women?s spouse,? the document states.

Other notable rules include timely payment of financial obligations such as vehicle licenses and insurance, a ban on joining secret societies or political parties, and restrictions on private business ventures. Officers are also warned against misusing government property or accepting gifts and favors from juniors.

?An officer shall not engage in private business? or use government property, his name, position, and connection in ways that interfere with his official duties or bring discredit to the service,? the document further states.

While the revised code outlines strict behavioural standards, the disciplinary measures for those found violating these rules were not specified.

In her response, the leading human rights defenders the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) said these decisions by the President are In total compliance with relevant provisions of the Nigerian Constitution chapter 2 section 21 on the directive on Nigerian cultures which provides thus: ?The State SHALL (a) protect, preserve, and promote the Nigerian cultures which enhance human dignity abd are consistent with the fundamental objectives as provided for in this chapter, and (b) encourage development of technological abd scientific studies which enhance cultural values.?

HURIWA through the National Coordinator Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko called on all Nigerians to stand by the President and support these decisions that are aimed at defending our respected African cultural value system which do not detract from any provisions of the chapter 4 of the 1999 just as HURIWA expressed optimism that these codes and ethical directives would enhance professionalism and excellence in the Nigerian military.

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