Angry Inhabitants Lynch Alleged Homo Suspect
…As police declare partner wanted
By Our REPORTER
There was pandemonium in the agrarian community of Obagie Nokenkporo in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of Edo State recently when angry inhabitants attacked and lynched a man allegedly involved in homosexual activities in the community.
The incident was said to have occurred on June 13, 2024. The suspect identified as Osas Igbinigie was said to have been caught in the act with his partner who fled the scene before the arrival of the angry mob.
A resident who saw both men kissing and caressing each other inside a building under construction, was said to have raised the alarm which drew the attention of the nearby inhabitants. One of them however fled into the bush to escape the wrath of the angry mob.
On interrogation, the suspect was unable to explain what he and his partner were doing in the uncompleted building. He was beaten, clubbed and eventually lynched as he bled profusely from injuries inflicted on him by the mob.
The mob later went into the bush in search of his partner but were unable to trace his whereabouts. The incident was later reported to the Ologbo Police Division for the arrest and probable prosecution of the fleeing gay suspect.
Meanwhile, the police has declared the fleeing gay suspect, Joseph Obazeenu
wanted for sodomy.
A police statement in Benin City urged members of the public with any useful information that might lead to the arrest of the suspect to report to the Criminal Investigation Department, Police Headquarters or the nearest police station within and outside Edo State for a handsome reward.
Homosexuality or same sex marriage/ relationship is considered a taboo and strictly forbidden in Nigerian communities.
Anyone found to be involved in LGBT is either killed or forced to perform some rigorous traditional ceremonies to appease the gods and cleanse the land.
The ceremonies include being paraded nude on the streets and stoned with various objects. These ceremonies often lead to psychological trauma, physical injuries and death.
The act is also a criminal offense which attracts between 10-14 years imprisonment.
