Nigerian authorities have carried out a raid on an alleged same-sex wedding in the southern city of Warri in Delta state, leading to the arrest of 67 individuals. The event, which violates the country’s laws prohibiting same-sex unions, was uncovered following a tipoff from an informant familiar with the gathering. This incident emerged after the questioning of a male cross-dresser on August 27, who had been dressed as a female during police interrogation. However, the exact date of the raid has not been specified.
According to Edafe Bright, the spokesperson for the Delta police, those apprehended will soon face charges in court. Nigeria, much like many parts of Africa, holds a prevailing societal viewpoint that considers homosexuality unacceptable. This standpoint was further solidified in 2014 when an anti-gay law came into effect, despite facing international criticism. While cross-dressing is not explicitly outlawed, it often faces social disapproval.
In this operation, law enforcement officials pursued and detained a total of 67 suspects accused of orchestrating and attending the alleged same-sex wedding ceremony. Ongoing investigations have uncovered distressing details, including the alleged rape of an inebriated guest by a suspect who remains at large.
Efforts are underway to track down individuals who fled the scene during the raid. Nigeria’s anti-gay legislation enforces penalties of up to 14 years’ imprisonment for those convicted, encompassing gay marriage, same-sex relationships, and affiliation with LGBTQ rights organizations. As the nation with the highest population in Africa, Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges posed by these stringent laws on LGBTQ rights and inclusivity.