The Bauchi State House of Assembly has called on the State Shari’ah Commission to swiftly investigate allegations concerning an alleged meeting involving gays and lesbians in Bauchi.

This directive comes in response to claims made by an Islamic scholar from Kano, Dr Abdallah Usman Gadon-Kaya, who shared a viral video on social media alleging that such a gathering took place.

In the video, which spread widely across social media platforms last week, Dr. Gadon-Kaya claimed that homosexual individuals from various parts of Northern Nigeria assembled in Bauchi for a 10-day orientation event.

However, the cleric did not provide specific details regarding the exact date or location of the supposed gathering.

Despite the lack of concrete information, he insisted that he was prepared to offer evidence to substantiate his claims.

During a plenary session on Wednesday, the matter was brought to the attention of the House by Dr. Nasiru Ahmed Ala, the representative for the Chinade/Madara constituency.

Ala emphasized the urgency of the situation, calling for the Shari’ah Commission to summon the Islamic scholar to present any evidence supporting his allegations.

He underscored the importance of upholding Shari’ah laws and ensuring that any individuals involved in such activities face the appropriate legal consequences.

Ala’s motion, which was introduced under matters of urgent public importance, highlighted the necessity for a thorough investigation to clarify the truth of the claims and determine the next steps by Shari’ah law.

In response to the motion, the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Abubakar Sulaiman, affirmed the House’s authority under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) to direct investigations and summon individuals for explanations on matters of public interest.

He stressed that the Assembly is committed to addressing this issue lawfully and responsibly.

Sulaiman reiterated that the Assembly has the constitutional mandate to investigate any claim that could affect public morality or social order, especially about Shari’ah law.

He assured that the legislative body would follow due process in ensuring the allegations are thoroughly examined and, if found to be true, that appropriate legal measures would be taken against those involved.

The investigation, once initiated, is expected to involve gathering information from relevant parties, including Dr. Gadon-Kaya and conducting a thorough review of any available evidence.

The House of Assembly’s directive underscores the seriousness with which the claims are being treated, given the sensitive nature of the issue and its potential impact on public sentiment in Bauchi and the wider Northern region.

The Shari’ah Commission is now tasked with expediting the investigation, ensuring that all claims are thoroughly vetted and that justice is served by both the Nigerian Constitution and Shari’ah law.

The outcome of this investigation is anticipated with great interest, as it will determine how the state proceeds in handling such matters in the future.