Reactions have been strong in response to the decision by the Women’s Football League in Nigeria to exclude lesbian players from the national team and clubs in the country. Women around the world are mobilizing against this measure, including Frenchwoman Audrey Keysers, a member of the council of the Socialist Party, and several other personalities. They have sent an open letter to the Nigerian Ambassador to France, Mr. Akin O. Fayomi, condemning this discriminatory stance.
Mr. Fayomi responded to Afrika Foot, stating that when they became aware of the case of homophobia in Nigeria, they felt compelled to take action. The open letter to the Ambassador was a way to express their position on the matter. Additionally, they plan to send a letter co-signed by various personalities, including Lilian Thuram and Marinette Pichon, to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Quai d’Orsay) addressed to Laurent Fabius. The goal is to inform the Minister and seek reactions.
Mr. Fayomi also acknowledged FIFA’s intervention by sending a letter to the Nigerian Federation, stating that FIFA is right to take a position on such matters. FIFA has previously addressed issues like wearing a veil in competition, and it is considered appropriate for them to intervene in this case as well.
