BY JOHN ADAZI
ABUJA – There was pandemonium in the Utako District area of Abuja recently when some Muslim youths allegedly attacked a gay wedding party , killing one suspect in the process.
The incident was said to have occurred on January 11 this year.
The victim identified as one James Abdul and his partner, Chuks Ekweonye were among the handful of guests at the party which was discreetly organized in honour of a gay couple.
Sources say the attack was instigated by some anti – gay campaigners who had earlier arrived the venue after they got wind of the wedding party .
The NIGERIAN OBSERVER learnt that the couple and guests were having fun inside a closed door when some persons suspected to be Muslims youths from a nearby mosque stormed the venue, wielding cutlasses, sticks and other dangerous weapons. They immediately attacked every body in sight, killing one person and injuring several others.
Meanwhile, the police in collaboration with members of the local vigilante in the Utaku area of Abuja are said to have launched a manhunt for Chuks Ekweonye and one Femi Obazee who are believed to be the organisers of the gay wedding party .
Homosexuality or same -sex relationship is forbidden in most indigenous communities across Nigeria. It is also a criminal offence and offenders are liable to 14 years in prison.
Ironically, there have been reported increase in cases of homosexuality and lesbianism across major cities in Nigeria since 2014 when a new law was enacted prohibiting same – sex marriage in the country.
Field reports by human rights organizations indicate the harrowing experience with which LGTB persons are often subjected to by both the police and citizens.
According to findings, LGTB persons are often harassed, beaten, tortured and in some cases, stoned to death.
They are also reported to be prone to extortion by police as they are forced to part huge amounts of money for fear of being charged to court , and possibly sentenced to 14 years in prison.
