Tension has reportedly gripped a community in Benin City following claims that two young men, identified as Osas (22) and Courage Esosa Obinyan (17), were allegedly involved in a same-sex relationship.
According to sources, a neighbour identified simply as Denis claimed he caught the duo in what he described as an “intimate act.” Denis was said to have immediately informed Osas’ stepmother, Mrs. Grace Obinyan, who later briefed her husband, Mr. Ben Obinyan, upon his return from work.
The alleged act, which reportedly occurred within the family compound, has stirred intense reactions within the community. Some residents expressed shock, describing the incident as “abominable,” while others called on the police to take urgent action to prevent a recurrence.
A community elder who spoke under anonymity said,
“In the history of the Edo Kingdom tradition, same-sex act is a serious taboo and desecration of the ancestral land, with offenders liable to spiritual cleansing of the land and banishment. Such practices are alien to our culture and beliefs.”
It is worth noting that same-sex relationships are punishable under Nigerian law. The Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2014 criminalizes same-sex unions and related acts, prescribing penalties for those found guilty.
Following the development, Osas reportedly fled his father’s home after the news spread, while Courage Esosa Obinya was said to have been assisted by a relative to leave the area amid growing tension and fear of possible arrest.
Confirming the incident, a senior police officer from the Edo State Police Command said:
“We are aware of the community unrest over the alleged act. Our concern is maintaining peace and ensuring that no one takes the law into their own hands, while measures to apprehend the fleeing suspects are underway.”
Meanwhile, human rights advocates have called on law enforcement agencies to prioritize the safety of all individuals involved, warning that mob justice or harassment on the basis of perceived sexual orientation is unlawful.
As of press time, the whereabouts of Osas and Courage remain unknown. Community leaders have since appealed for calm, urging residents to allow due process and avoid actions that could escalate the situation further.
