The Nigerian forces of law and order in the northeastern part of the country, precisely the Gombe State, have arrested over 76persons, for allegedly promoting same-sex marriage.
In an unforeseen turn of events, it is reported the individuals amongst whom were some vehemently confessing they are of the LGBT community, initially organized a birthday party for one of theirs, where a same-sex couple wanted to seize the opportunity and tie the knots on October 22nd.
Same-sex marriage, considered to be a taboo in most African territories and principally in the Nigeria, arresting such individuals is uphold as a mission.
Speaking after their arrest, Buhari Saad, the spokesman for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps(NSCDC) in Gombe State said, they had arrested 76 suspected homosexuals at a birthday party organized by one them, who was due to marry his fiance at the wedding. All together, the arrest comprised of 59 men and 17women.
According to a 2014 law in Nigeria, same-sex marriage is a crime and consequently, punishable by 14years imprisonment.
The practice which is seen as an abomination by the indigenous people is to an extent, punishable by death, under the Sharia Law in the Gombe State.
In Nigeria, the arrest of homosexuals have become rampant but sources have it that, after their arrest, they are released without being brought to the justice as they are just reprimanded.
A clear example according to findings, is the reported arrest of over 100 homosexuals in the southeastern part of the country, in the month of August this year 2023 but who were never convicted, this, according to several Nigerian news outlets.
As it stands, despite the challenges the Nigerian authorities are facing in tracking down homosexuals, some individuals say, more drastic measures should be undertaken.
FRU William.
