IN a significant development related to Nigeria’s strict anti-gay laws, over 60 individuals arrested last week in connection with an alleged gay wedding have been remanded in prison. The arrests, which took place in Delta state, followed a tipoff and have ignited debate surrounding the country’s stance on homosexuality.
The court granted the police’s request for remand during a hearing held in the southern city of Warri, Delta state, on Monday. Although the police statement did not specify the exact number of individuals remanded, it confirmed that the suspects had been arraigned in court and would be held in prison for two weeks. Last week, the police initially reported the arrest of 67 individuals.
Homosexuality remains a contentious issue in Nigeria, as it does in many parts of Africa. The country implemented an anti-gay law in 2014, despite facing international criticism. The law imposes severe penalties, including prison terms of up to 14 years for those found guilty, and prohibits gay marriage, same-sex relationships, and involvement in gay rights organisations.
Defence lawyer Ochuko Ohimor, who is representing 60 of the suspects, disclosed that the next court hearing is scheduled for September 18. He is actively pursuing bail applications for the accused and indicated that the total number of individuals remanded stands at 69. The charges against them are related to allegations of celebrating a gay wedding.
‘All we are doing now is to bring up bail applications on their behalf… if it is found meritorious it (the court) can admit them to bail. The bail application can come before the expiration of the 14-day remand order,’ Ohimor stated.
As this case unfolds, it continues to raise questions about the enforcement of Nigeria’s anti-gay laws and the broader conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the country and across Africa.