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The Delta State Police Command has declared six individuals—Abel Odafe, Chucks Emeka, Kunle Akikunmi, Romanus Omozokpea, Oghale Efe, and Godfrey Akenuwa—wanted for allegedly attending a same-sex wedding in Warri, Uvwie Local Government Area.
The police, acting on intelligence, raided the venue on August 27, arresting 67 people believed to be part of the event. However, six suspects managed to escape and are now evading law enforcement. Commissioner of Police Wale Abbas confirmed that security agencies are tracking the fugitives and have urged the public to provide any useful information.
One of the arrested individuals, Jerry Osas, allegedly linked to Romanus Omozokpea, remains in police custody and is expected to face trial along with others. Reports suggest that both Osas and Omozokpea had previously been accused of same-sex activities in Benin in 2021, though they denied the allegations. Their presence at the Warri event has intensified police investigations.
Same-sex relationships remain illegal in Nigeria under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, which carries a penalty of up to 14 years in prison. Authorities insist that those arrested will be prosecuted, but human rights groups have condemned the crackdown, calling it a violation of fundamental freedoms. As legal proceedings begin for the detained individuals, the search continues for the remaining suspects. The case has reignited debates on LGBTQ+ rights in Nigeria, highlighting ongoing tensions between law enforcement and human rights advocacy.
