In the wake of widespread reports alleging that the Osun State Government planned to distribute condoms and lubricants at malls and lounges on Valentine’s Day, the state government has firmly denied any such initiative, calling the claims false and misleading.
The controversy erupted after a statement credited to Olusegun Daramola, the Executive Secretary of the Osun State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS (O-SACA), surfaced in the media. The statement allegedly suggested that the distribution of condoms and lubricants was part of efforts to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS and promote safe sexual practices among residents.
“It’s essential to avoid risky behaviors, such as unprotected sexual intercourse. We encourage those who haven’t already done so to get tested and know their status,” the widely circulated statement read. It further claimed that the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke was committed to reducing HIV prevalence and ending AIDS by 2030.
The reports triggered mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some praising the supposed initiative as a proactive public health measure, while others criticized it as an endorsement of immorality. However, in an official rebuttal issued by the Spokesperson for the Governor of Osun State, Olawale Rasheed, the government categorically dismissed the reports as fake news.
The statement emphasized that the Adeleke-led administration remains committed to improving public health but had not authorized any condom or lubricant distribution program at malls, lounges, or any other public locations.
“The report suggesting that the Osun State Government is distributing condoms for Valentine’s Day is false. There is no such policy or initiative by this administration,” Rasheed stated.
Despite the government’s denial, the initial reports have reignited discussions on sexual health awareness in Nigeria, particularly on the role of state agencies in addressing rising cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Experts argue that while public education on safe sex practices remains essential, it must be done through clear, well-structured campaigns rather than misrepresented or sensationalized reports.
With this controversy settled, the Osun State Government has urged the public to disregard false reports and rely only on verified sources for information.
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