Aug, 27, 2023
Four women were arrested on August 23, 2023 in Ilupeju, Lagos by members of a local vigilante group on suspicion of engaging in same-sex activities, an offence under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act.
The suspects — Adeyemi Handu, Nosimat Olowookere, Sekinat Ajenifuja and Rhoda Adesanya — were reportedly assaulted before being handed over to the police at the Ilupeju police station, where they remained in custody. Bail has been denied pending investigation.
According to residents, the vigilante group acted on information about a gathering at a private residence on Oke Arin street, Ilupeju, Lagos.
Police sources confirmed that during questioning, the suspects provided names of other alleged members, prompting a wider search.
Those named include Abosede Animashaun, Chinwe Okafor, Adebimpe Monite, Rashidat Bello, and Mary Nwachukwu.
The police spokesperson confirmed that investigation has commenced. He urged members of the public not to take laws into their own hands, emphasizing that suspected activities should be reported to the law enforcement agencies for proper handling and that efforts to locate the named individuals are ongoing.
He appealed to anyone with informations that could lead to their arrest to contact the authorities.
As of the time of filing this report, no additional arrests had been announced.
Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act was signed into law in January 2014. It criminalizes same-sex marriage, civil unions, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples, with penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment. Membership in or support for LGBTQ+ organizations is also punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
