Amnesty International Condemns Arrest of Suspected Homosexuals at Gay Wedding in Nigeria

Amnesty International Nigeria has denounced the arrest of numerous individuals suspected of being involved in a gay wedding that took place in the Urhobo community of Ekpan, Uvwie local government area in Delta State. Speaking out against the incident, the human rights organization called for an immediate halt to what it referred to as a "witch-hunt".

Amnesty International's director in Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, highlighted the pervasive corruption in the country, pointing out that the law prohibiting same-sex relationships is increasingly being manipulated for the purpose of harassment, exploitation, and blackmail. The organization expressed concern over the situation, emphasizing that the anti-gay law is being misused as a tool of oppression.

The scale of the recent arrests in Nigeria has drawn international attention. Police in southern Delta state apprehended a total of 67 individuals who were allegedly celebrating a same-sex wedding. This mass detention represents one of the largest crackdowns targeting the LGBTQ+ community in the country's history.

Under Nigeria's 2013 Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, homosexuality is punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment. Additionally, anyone found aiding in the organization of a same-sex wedding can face 10 years in prison. The police spokesperson, Bright Edafe, made it clear that the authorities have zero tolerance for homosexuality and that it will never be accepted in Nigeria.

According to Edafe, the police initially detained 200 people after storming a hotel in Ekpan during the alleged gay wedding. However, only 67 of them were eventually arrested. During the parade of the detainees, which was broadcasted online by the police, one person claimed they were not actually attending the wedding but were present at the hotel for a different event. Another individual stated that they were on their way to a fashion show when they were detained.

It is worth noting that many African countries have criminalized same-sex relationships. Uganda, for example, recently enacted a law that allows for the death penalty in certain circumstances for individuals found guilty of engaging in homosexual acts.

The arrest of suspected homosexuals in Nigeria has sparked outrage both locally and globally, with human rights organizations and activists calling for an end to the persecution of the LGBTQ+ community. Amnesty International's strong condemnation of these arrests underscores the need for progress in promoting equality and ending discrimination based on sexual orientation.

In conclusion, the arrest of numerous individuals at a gay wedding in Nigeria has sparked widespread condemnation from Amnesty International and other human rights organizations. The misuse of laws prohibiting same-sex relationships for harassment and extortion is a growing concern. It is crucial for Nigeria and other countries to address these issues and ensure the protection of LGBTQ+ rights.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-08-31 News

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