Over 60 individuals apprehended last week in Nigeria in connection with an alleged same-sex wedding, an activity deemed illegal in the country, have been ordered to remain in custody, as confirmed by both the police and their legal representative on Monday.
The decision to detain the suspects was granted following a court hearing held on Monday in the southern city of Warri in Delta State, where the arrests took place following a tip-off.
According to a statement from the police in Delta State, “The suspects have been arraigned in court today, and the judge has ruled that they be remanded in prison for two weeks.” While the statement did not specify the exact number of individuals remanded, the police had previously reported that 67 individuals were detained.
Homosexuality is widely regarded as socially unacceptable in Nigeria, as it is in many parts of Africa, and the nation implemented an anti-gay law in 2014, despite international condemnation.
Ochuko Ohimor, the defence counsel representing 60 of the suspects, stated that the next hearing is scheduled for September 18, and he is actively pursuing bail for the individuals.
He clarified that the total number of individuals remanded is 69, all facing charges related to their alleged involvement in a same-sex wedding celebration.
“All we are doing now is bringing up bail applications on their behalf… If it is found meritorious, the court can admit them to bail. The bail application can be submitted before the expiration of the 14-day remand order,” he explained.
The anti-gay legislation in Africa’s most populous nation includes severe penalties, including prison terms of up to 14 years for those convicted, and prohibits same-sex marriage, same-sex relationships, and membership in LGBTQ+ rights organisations.
