In a harrowing tale of fear and trepidation, a Nigerian man Oluwaseyi Adekunbi Alabi has found himself the target of a relentless manhunt, spurred by allegations of homosexuality—a charge that carries severe legal and social weights in Nigeria.
This incident has casted a stark light on the perils faced by sexual minorities in a country where same-sex relationships are not only taboo but criminalized.
The young man, who is no where to be found right now because of the imminent danger to his life, as the community’s outcry and the law’s unforgiving stance, has left him with little choice but to run. Though, no one can say where he is at the moment, however, two of his alleged partners, Segun Kehinde and Kenny Amoo have been apprehended and the two of them are at the moment giving the police authorities valuable information about Alabi and the others.
According to our source, we gathered that the alleged partners have mentioned Alabi as the kingpin of their secret group of homosexuals living around the Alimosho , a suburb area of Lagos state.
Alabi’s woes, we gathered, started yesterday the 20th of April, when he was beaten up severely because of the allegation that he was involved in same sex.
His assailant so much beat him that he ended up at the hospital. His only luck was that he was left for death before a good Samaritan helped him to the hospital where he regained consciousness.
We gathered further that, it could have been worse if the police was invited because , that would be another rounds of torture and anguish before he’ll be taken to court.
Oluwaseyi’s story is not an isolated one; it echoes the narratives of many before him, who have found themselves ensnared by Nigeria’s stringent anti-gay laws, which prescribe up to 14 years in prison for those convicted of homosexual acts.
The societal backlash against homosexuality in Nigeria is deeply rooted in the nation’s history and culture and many have resolved not to bend by allowing what they term as ungodly act.
As this story continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the work that remains to be done. It is a call to action to the international bodies to find a way in helping those voiceless to be able to live their lives without the usual fear that has perpetually enveloped them