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nigeriaNigeria has passed a bill banning same sex marriages today.

The bill will punish couples that take part in same-sex marriages with a 14-year jail sentence.

Witnesses and anyone involved in such marriages will also be criminalised, as will same-sex public displays of affection and groups supporting gay rights.

The new bill further tightens the already strict rules on homosexuality.

A 2008 survey conducted by the Nigerian office of Information for Sexual and Reproductive Rights showed than only 1.4% of Nigerians felt “tolerant” towards sexual minorities.

The new legislation will now have to be approved but the Nigerian House of Representatives before it can be formally made law by the president, Goodluck Jonathan.

Gay sex is illegal throughout Nigeria, and in some areas is punishable by stoning.

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