Nigeria Detains 67 Individuals in Mass Arrest at Gay Wedding

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) -- Police in Nigeria say they detained at least 67 people celebrating a gay wedding. It is one of the largest mass detentions targeting homosexuality, which is outlawed in the country. A police spokesman says the suspects were arrested in southern Delta state's Ekpan town at about 2 a.m. on Monday. He said that homosexuality "will never be tolerated" in the West African nation. Arrests of gay people are common in Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, where the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act carries up to 14 years in jail for gay individuals. Accomplices also face 10 years in prison. Enacted in 2013, the law has been condemned locally and internationally, though it is also supported by many in Nigeria.

The recent mass arrest of individuals celebrating a gay wedding in Nigeria has once again highlighted the strict stance the country maintains on homosexuality. With one of the largest populations in Africa, Nigeria's laws and societal attitudes towards same-sex relationships have come under scrutiny from both local and international human rights organizations.

Nigeria's Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, which was enacted in 2013, is known for its severe penalties for individuals involved in same-sex relationships. The law carries a punishment of up to 14 years in jail for gay individuals and 10 years for their accomplices. The recent arrests in Ekpan town serve as a clear demonstration of the Nigerian government's commitment to enforcing this legislation.

While the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act has faced condemnation from human rights activists around the world, it enjoys significant support within Nigeria. Conservative religious groups and politicians argue that the law is necessary to uphold traditional Nigerian values and protect the institution of marriage.

However, critics argue that the law contributes to an environment of discrimination and harassment against Nigeria's LGBTQ+ community. Advocacy groups point to increased violence, hate crimes, and persecution of individuals based on their sexual orientation. They argue that such legislation infringes on the basic human rights of Nigerians and perpetuates harmful stereotypes and prejudices.

The recent mass arrest of individuals celebrating a gay wedding adds to a long list of cases where Nigerian authorities have targeted individuals based on their sexual orientation. Human rights organizations have documented numerous instances of arbitrary arrests, extortion, and even torture of LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria.

International human rights organizations and governments have repeatedly called on Nigeria to review and repeal the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act. They argue that the Act violates Nigeria's commitments under international human rights treaties and conventions, which protect against discrimination based on sexual orientation.

The situation in Nigeria reflects a larger global debate surrounding LGBTQ+ rights and the clash between traditional values and evolving societal norms. While progress towards equality has been made in many parts of the world, several countries, including Nigeria, continue to criminalize same-sex relationships.

As the international community grapples with issues of LGBTQ+ rights and legal protections, the situation in Nigeria serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by individuals living in countries with anti-gay laws. The mass detention of individuals in Ekpan town underscores the urgency for continued advocacy and awareness to protect the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals globally.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-29 News

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