The Edo State Police Command has reportedly launched a manhunt for two women accused of engaging in a same-sex relationship in Benin City, declaring them wanted following an incident that allegedly occurred in the Ekae Community of the state capital.
One of the women, identified as Precious Ivie Ovbiye, was allegedly caught engaging in a same-sex act with another woman whose identity has been withheld.
The incident reportedly took place on Boxing Day, 2023, at Ovbiye’s matrimonial home located at No. 64 Ohen Street, Ekae Community, Benin City.
According to sources within the community, the two women were allegedly discovered by Ivie’s sister-in-law, who reportedly arrived at the residence unannounced.
The sister-in-law was said to have recorded the alleged act before raising an alarm, attracting neighbours and other residents to the scene.
It was gathered that moments after the alarm was raised, the unidentified woman allegedly fled the residence. Precious Ivie Ovbiye was also said to have escaped from the house shortly afterwards in an apparent attempt to avoid confrontation from residents of the community.
The incident reportedly generated widespread outrage within the area, with some angry youths allegedly threatening to set the building ablaze after learning that the two women had escaped before they could be apprehended.
However, prompt intervention by police operatives reportedly prevented any breakdown of law and order.
Sources disclosed that both women had already fled the community before the arrival of security personnel.
Confirming the development, the Edo State Police Command said investigations had commenced and efforts were underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Speaking on the matter, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Chidi Nwanbuzor, reportedly stated that the police were working closely with members of the public and other security agencies to track down the two women and bring them to justice.
According to the police spokesperson, the Command possesses evidence relating to the allegations and has intensified efforts to locate and arrest the suspects.
SP Nwanbuzor further noted that same-sex relationships and related activities are prohibited under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, 2013.
He explained that the law prescribes severe penalties for persons found guilty of offences connected with same-sex unions and related conduct, including lengthy prison terms upon conviction by a court of competent jurisdiction.
The police spokesman urged members of the public with useful information concerning the whereabouts of Precious Ivie Ovbiye and her alleged partner to promptly report such information to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
As of the time of filing this report, both women remained at large while police efforts to apprehend them and conclude investigations were said to be ongoing.
