BY DANIEL EDOBOR
BENIN CITY – The Edo State Command of the Nigerian Police has declared wanted one Emmanuel Bello Osage over his involvement in an illicit and unlawful act of same-sex act with another man, an which reportedly culminated in a midnight arson attack in a remote community in the state.
Fear and uncertainty was said to have reportedly gripped a neighbourhood in Benin City after unknown gunmen attacked the home of a businessman and musical artiste, Mr. Emmanuel Bello Osagie, in a chilling midnight assault believed to have been targeted at him.
Residents said the incident, which occurred late at night, sent shockwaves through the quiet area as armed men reportedly stormed Osagie’s residence while he was away.
Unconfirmed sources link the assault to Muslim bandits in the area who see the recent activities of Osagie not only as a contradiction of their religion, but anti-community to also damage Osagie’s house in the community.
Though no lives were lost, the sudden attack left neighbours shaken, many too frightened to speak openly about what they witnessed.
“It was terrifying,” a resident said, recalling how the sound of movement and commotion broke the stillness of the night.
“People stayed indoors. Nobody knew what could happen next.”
Osagie, who is alleged to be in a same-sex relationship with a Muslim, was not at home at the time of the attack, and his whereabouts have since remained unknown.
His absence has only deepened concern among those who know him, as fears grow over his safety.
In the aftermath, his wife, with children reportedly fled the home and has relocated to an undisclosed location, worried that she, too, could be in danger.
Those close to the family say the incident has left them traumatised and uncertain about what lies ahead.
Meanwhile, a police statement made available to journalists in Benin City stated that the Edo Police Benin Command received a distress report on the midnight arson attack and had commenced investigation into the rather unfortunate incident.
The statement further stated that one Emmanuel Bello Osage has been reportedly declared wanted over his secret involvement in an illicit and unlawful act of same-sex with another man as it was said to have triggered the midnight arson attack in the community
The situation also underscores the broader risks surrounding same-sex relationships in Nigeria, where such acts remain criminalised and could attract up to 14 years imprisonment if proven in court.
