By Ishola Ayodele

The SAMOA Agreement, recently signed by Nigeria, has sparked intense debate in the public sphere. Named after Samoa, where it was signed, this agreement establishes a comprehensive legal framework between the European Union (EU) and more than half of the 79 members of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS). It covers six main areas: democracy and human rights, sustainable economic growth, climate change, human and social development, peace and security, and migration and mobility. While designed to foster cooperation and development among its signatories, recent controversies have clouded its true intent, particularly in Nigeria.

After extensive review of media reports, expert analyses, and discussions, I present the arguments of both proponents and critics of the SAMOA Agreement, along with the major concerns fueling the controversies:

ARGUMENTS FOR THE SAMOA AGREEMENT
*Economic and Developmental Benefits*
Proponents of the SAMOA Agreement argue that it offers substantial economic and developmental advantages. The agreement promises to support sustainable economic growth and development, which is crucial for Nigeria’s economy. By engaging with the EU and other OACPS members, Nigeria stands to gain from increased trade, investment, and development aid, all of which are essential for addressing poverty, unemployment, and economic stagnation.

*Human Rights and Governance*
The agreement’s focus on democracy, human rights, and governance aligns with Nigeria’s aspirations for improved governance and respect for human rights. By adhering to these principles, Nigeria can enhance its international standing and foster a more just and equitable society. The promotion of human and social development, peace and security, and migration and mobility also addresses critical issues that Nigeria faces, such as internal conflicts, human rights abuses, and migration challenges.

*Global Collaboration on Climate Change*
Climate change is a global challenge that requires collective action. The SAMOA Agreement’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation is particularly relevant for Nigeria, which is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. By participating in this agreement, Nigeria can benefit from shared knowledge, resources, and technologies aimed at combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability.

ARGUMENTS AGAINST THE SAMOA AGREEMENT

*LGBTQ Concerns*
One of the most contentious issues surrounding the SAMOA Agreement is the alleged inclusion of LGBTQ clauses. Critics argue that the agreement subtly promotes LGBTQ rights, which contradicts Nigeria’s laws and cultural values. Although the Nigerian government and legal experts, including Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN, have clarified that the agreement does not mandate the recognition of LGBTQ rights, the fear persists. This concern is fueled by the potential interpretation of certain articles, such as Articles 2.5, 2.9, and 15, from perspectives that might conflict with Nigeria’s understanding and laws.

*Sovereignty and Legal Ambiguities*
There are fears that the SAMOA Agreement might undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and existing laws. Critics worry that the agreement could be interpreted in ways that contradict the Nigerian Constitution and the Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, 2013 (SSMPA). For instance, human rights, sexual and reproductive rights, and gender equality could be construed to include LGBTQ rights, abortion rights, and transgender rights, which are contentious issues in Nigeria.

*External Influence and Direct Funding*
Another significant concern is the provision allowing the EU to directly fund civic organizations or NGOs whose missions align with EU values. This could lead to funding for organizations that support activities or rights contrary to Nigerian laws and values, such as abortion, which is illegal in Nigeria. This provision raises questions about the extent of external influence on Nigeria’s internal affairs and the potential erosion of its legal and cultural frameworks.

CONCERNS AND POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS

1. *Clandestine LGBTQ Agenda*: There is a genuine concern that the West might use agreements like SAMOA to covertly promote LGBTQ acceptance in Africa. Given the cultural and legal stance of Nigeria on LGBTQ issues, this remains a contentious point.

2. *Interpretation of Articles*: Articles 2.5, 2.9, and 15 could be interpreted differently by other member states, leading to potential conflicts in understanding and implementation. This divergence in interpretation could result in unintended consequences for Nigeria.

3. *Subjugation of Existing Laws*: There is an ongoing debate about whether the SAMOA Agreement can override Nigeria’s existing laws, particularly those related to LGBTQ rights and gender issues. This concern underscores the need for clarity and safeguards in international agreements.

4. *Relaxation of Law Enforcement*: Fears abound that the executive arm might relax the enforcement of the SSMPA, potentially undermining the prohibition of LGBTQ activities if it believes that strict enforcement could jeopardize access to international loans or support.

5. *Redefinition of Human Rights*: The broad interpretation of human rights could extend to the right to love whoever one pleases, including LGBTQ relationships, which clashes with Nigeria’s legal stance.

6. *Sexual and Reproductive Rights*: These rights might be interpreted to include LGBTQ rights and abortion, further complicating Nigeria’s legal and moral position on these issues.

7. *Gender Equality and Transgender Rights*: Gender equality could be construed to encompass transgender rights and broader definitions of gender and sexual orientation, challenging Nigeria’s traditional views.

8. *Lack of Exceptions*: Contrary to the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT), the SAMOA Agreement does not allow for exceptions or reservations, which could force Nigeria to accept provisions that contradict its laws.

9. *Funding of Controversial Activities*: The provision allowing the EU to bypass the government and directly fund NGOs aligned with EU values could lead to the support of activities like abortion, which are illegal in Nigeria.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Given the numerous concerns and potential implications, it is crucial to address these issues before fully committing to the SAMOA Agreement. The following steps are recommended:

1. *Suspend the Agreement*: The Nigerian government should consider suspending the SAMOA Agreement, as suggested by the House of Representatives, until all controversies and public concerns are thoroughly addressed. This move would prevent exacerbating existing tensions and maintain public trust.

2. *Stakeholder Engagement and Public Hearing*: Re-engage all relevant stakeholders, including legal experts, civil society, and the general public, to discuss and address concerns. Conducting public hearings can provide a platform for a more inclusive and transparent discussion, ensuring that all voices are heard and considered.

3. *Clarification of Terms*: Clearly define the terms and provisions within the agreement to avoid ambiguous interpretations that could lead to conflicts with Nigerian laws and values. This includes specifying the scope of human rights, sexual and reproductive rights, and gender equality.

4. *Ensure Sovereignty and Legal Compliance*: Safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensure that no part of the agreement undermines existing laws or compels the country to adopt provisions contrary to its legal and cultural framework.

5. *Strategic Communication and Transparency*: Implement a robust strategic communication strategy to effectively communicate the objectives, benefits, and safeguards of the SAMOA Agreement to the Nigerian public. This strategy should prioritize transparency, accurate information dissemination, and proactive engagement with stakeholders to build understanding and trust. By addressing concerns preemptively and engaging proactively, the government can mitigate misinformation and foster informed public discourse.

By taking these steps, Nigeria can navigate the complexities of the SAMOA Agreement while protecting its legal integrity and cultural values, thereby fostering a more harmonious and beneficial international partnership.

Ishola, N. Ayodele is a distinguished and multiple award-winning strategic communication expert who specializes in ‘Message Engineering’. He helps Organizations, Brands and Leaders Communicate in a way that yields the desired outcome. He is the author of the seminal work, ‘PR Case Studies; Mastering the Trade,’ and Dean, the School of Impactful Communication (TSIC). He can be reached via ishopr2015@gmail.com or 08077932282

References
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Fapohunda, O., SAN. (2024). Report on the SAMOA Agreement. NBA Law Reform Committee.

International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR). (2024). LGBTQ: What Do Articles 2.5 and 2.9 of SAMOA Agreement Say? Retrieved from https://www.icirnigeria.org/lgbtq-what-do-articles-2-5-and-29-5-of-samoa-agreement-say/

Maikyau, Y. C., OON, SAN. (2024). Insights on the SAMOA Agreement. Speech delivered to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Nigeria. (2024). Request for NBA Review of the SAMOA Agreement.

Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). (2013). The Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2013 (SSMPA).

Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS). (2024). Overview of the SAMOA Agreement.

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Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (VCLT). (1969). United Nations.