Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – In a shocking incident, Nigerian police have detained over 60 individuals following a gay wedding, marking one of the largest mass detentions aimed at the LGBTQ+ community in the country. Nigeria has strict laws criminalizing same-sex relationships, making the celebration of such unions illegal and punishable by law.
The event took place in a private residence in the city, with attendees gathered to witness the union between two individuals of the same sex. Acting on a tip-off, the police swiftly arrived at the scene and arrested all those in attendance. According to authorities, 67 people were detained, raising concerns over the respect for human rights and freedom of expression in the country.
Nigeria’s stance on homosexuality is rooted in deeply entrenched cultural and religious beliefs. Same-sex relationships are considered taboo and immoral, with strong opposition from conservative groups and religious leaders. The country’s Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, passed in 2014, prohibits gay marriage, civil unions, and public displays of affection between same-sex couples.
Following the incident, LGBTQ+ rights activists and human rights organizations have condemned the mass detention, citing a breach of basic human rights and an attack on personal freedoms. They argue that every individual should have the right to love and marry whomever they choose, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Deborah Adeyemi, a spokesperson for the Nigerian LGBTQ+ Rights Initiative, expressed her concern, saying, “This incident highlights the urgent need for Nigeria to review its laws and align them with international standards on human rights. Criminalizing same-sex relationships only perpetuates discrimination and sends a message that LGBTQ+ individuals are not valued members of society.”
International human rights organizations have also raised their voices against the detention, calling on the Nigerian government to prioritize the protection of LGBTQ+ rights. Amnesty International denounced the incident, stating, “The mass arrest of individuals attending a same-sex wedding is a clear violation of their right to privacy, freedom of assembly, and freedom of expression.”
As the detained individuals await legal proceedings, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about the LGBTQ+ community’s rights and acceptance in Nigeria. While the country remains conservative on issues of sexuality and gender identity, advocates continue to fight for equal rights and the decriminalization of homosexuality.
It remains to be seen how this incident will impact the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights in Nigeria. The plight of those detained serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the community and the need for continued activism and advocacy in the pursuit of equality and acceptance for all.
