By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

The District Head of Maga, who is also the Madaucin Zuru, Alhaji Muhammadu D. Sani, has praised the Kebbi State Government for swiftly disassociating itself from claims that thousands of its residents are registered members of the LGBTQ+ community.

He described the figures as false, misleading, and harmful to the state?s reputation.

Sani, in his reaction on Thursday, April 3, 2025, commended the government for its prompt investigation, which debunked the allegations and reaffirmed its commitment to truth, morality, and accountability. He noted that such actions protect the integrity of Kebbi State and prevent the spread of misinformation.

?Kebbi State, home to Abdullahi Fodio and a historical stronghold of the Sokoto Caliphate, is widely recognised for its peace, stability, and deeprooted moral values,? he stated.

The controversy began after Dr. Nasir Kigo, Permanent Secretary, Cabinet Office, Birnin Kebbi, reportedly claimed during an Islamic gathering that 15,979 homosexuals and 18,567 lesbians were registered in Kebbi State. He also referenced an earlier count alleging 1,088 homosexuals and 7,986 lesbians, claiming the numbers had risen significantly. His comments later circulated on social media, drawing widespread reactions.

Governor Nasir Idris swiftly dismissed the claims, declaring them baseless and lacking credible evidence. He emphasized that no legitimate institution had conducted such a census and urged the public to disregard the misinformation.

?After a thorough investigation, the government discovered that these figures were fabricated. We call on the public to ignore these claims, as they hold no merit,? Governor Idris stated in a release issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris.

The Kebbi State Government also vowed to take disciplinary action against Dr. Kigo for spreading unverified information, warning public officials to verify their statements before addressing sensitive issues.

The false statistics have sparked reactions across the state, with residents and stakeholders questioning the source and motive behind the claims. The government, however, reassured the people of its commitment to transparency and social harmony, urging responsible dissemination of information to protect the state?s image.