Nigerian Citizen Toheeb Aremu Faces Grave Danger from Police Authorities
*Lagos, Nigeria* – Tijani Toheeb Aremu, a 29-year-old Nigerian resident of Lagos, finds himself in severe danger from the police authorities in Nigeria. Born on February 9, 1994, Toheeb shared his harrowing story of persecution and fear with our reporter.
Toheeb’s educational journey took him through Kingsway Primary School, Community High School, and Lolad College, culminating in tertiary education in 2016. He is currently single, having never married, with a past relationship with Kemi Oladipupo ending in infidelity and subsequent deep depression.
During his search for solace, Toheeb developed feelings for his long-term male friend, Lekan Sodimu, unaware of Lekan’s homosexuality. They engaged in intimate activities, but the relationship ended due to Lekan’s demanding job as a banker. Toheeb later entered a relationship with Abdul Rasheed, embracing their bisexuality.
However, their relationship faced fierce opposition, particularly from Abdul Rasheed’s father, Alhaji Okikiola, a strong and influential community figure. In Nigeria, where same-sex relationships are vehemently opposed, Toheeb and Abdul Rasheed were acutely aware of the dangers they faced.
Alhaji Okikiola, deeming their relationship immoral and criminal under Nigerian law and religious beliefs, reported them to the police, resulting in a crackdown on suspected offenders. The fear of discovery and arrest haunted Toheeb and Abdul Rasheed daily, forcing them to remain extremely cautious and discreet.
Their worst fears materialized on October 30, 2022, when Alhaji Okikiola caught them in a private moment and violently attacked Toheeb. Abdul Rasheed managed to escape, but Toheeb was left traumatized and fearing for his life. Alhaji Okikiola explicitly threatened Toheeb’s life, condemning their relationship.
The situation escalated further on November 25, 2022, when Toheeb was assaulted by unidentified men who warned him to end his relationship with Abdul Rasheed due to their differing social statuses. Toheeb has pictorial proof of the attack, which left visible marks on his face.
Exploiting his influence, Alhaji Okikiola reported Toheeb to the police, accusing him of engaging in criminal activities. The police, under pressure from Alhaji Okikiola, launched a manhunt for Toheeb. Realizing that his life was in imminent danger if he remained in Ikorodu, Toheeb took drastic measures to ensure his safety.
Toheeb’s story highlights the harsh reality faced by bisexual individuals in a country where their existence is met with hostility and condemnation. It serves as a poignant reminder of the fear, persecution, and desperate measures people like Toheeb must endure to seek safety and acceptance.