By Amos Adeola
Akure -The elders and leaders of Oke Odu community in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State have engaged in cleansing rituals in efforts to appease their local deities, following allegations of homosexuality involving a well-known fish farmer Ogunmola Oluwaseyi and his partner,Adepoju Damilola within the locality.
According to reports, Ogunmola Oluwaseyi and Adepoju Damilola have been engaged in what the community perceives as a sacrilegious relationship for an extended period. The revelation of their alleged immoral sexual association came to light when a friend of Ogunmola decided to disclose the matter to the elders. Subsequently, the elders summoned the informant to the village shrine to ascertain the truth.
In the face of potential consequences, Ogunmola Oluwaseyi, seemingly aware of the repercussions of providing false information, reportedly fled the village, leaving no trace of his whereabouts.
Disturbed by the unfolding events and the perceived negative impact on innocent members of the community, particularly children and nursing mothers, some villagers reacted by expressing their disapproval through a rampage, distancing themselves from the alleged abominable act.
Following local traditions, the irate villagers proceeded to destroy Ogunmola’s house and fish farm, signaling his banishment from the village.
Currently,the community members have been assigned the task of presenting appeasement items, which include live ruminants, cowrie shells, palm oil, and white native chalk at the community shrine to complete the appeasement process.
When reached for comment, the village Head, Otunba Aladenikan Oyomire11, confirmed that the council has already notified the local police authority about the situation.
It is important to note that same-sex relationships continue to be regarded as abominable and are not tolerated in Nigeria, as in many other African communities. Engaging in such behaviours is seen as risking one’s life.
