Tinubu bans homosexuality, tattooing, others in Nigerian army

President Bola Tinubu has wielded the big stick by banning Nigerian military officers from engaging in acts such as homosexuality, cross-dressing, bestiality, and other behaviours considered unethical under newly revised military regulations.

The rules also banned tattooing, body piercing, disorderly behavior, and drunkenness, whether on or off duty.

These prohibitions were outlined in the revised Harmonized Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024.

“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”, the document stated.

Also, the conditions addresses 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 added.

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 stated.

Moreover, while the revised code outlines strict behavioural standards, the disciplinary actions for those found violating these rules were not specified.