In a reminder of Nigeria’s existing legal stance on same-sex relationships, Police Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi reaffirmed on Thursday that same-sex marriage remains illegal in the country.
ACP Adejobi said the police were currently investigating the clip.
He said, “They are criminal and punishable under the law. We are on this clip to take necessary action according to the provisions of the law in Nigeria. These are unnatural offences and are condemned. Thanks.
“Following recent trend on social media where some individuals who identify as queer were visibly encouraging and associating themselves with activities perceived to be unnatural in light of Nigerian laws, the Nigeria Police Force hereby wishes to enlighten the public on the legal aspects concerning unnatural offences and same-sex marriage within the country.
“By the Nigerian Criminal Code Act applicable in Southern states, unnatural offences are prohibited under Sections 214 to 217.
“These sections specifically criminalise acts considered unnatural, such as having carnal knowledge of a person, or permitting a person to have carnal knowledge of one against the order of nature, or having carnal knowledge of an animal, and those found guilty may face legal consequences as outlined by the law. This is re-echoed by Section 284 of the Nigerian Penal Code applicable in the Northern part of the country.”
This statement comes amidst recent online activity involving LGBTQ individuals openly discussing their sexuality, sparking questions about potential legal repercussions.
Nigeria’s 2014 Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act criminalizes same-sex marriage and public displays of affection between same-sex couples. Since its implementation, concerns have been raised regarding its impact on the LGBTQ community, with reports of arrests and public parades of individuals suspected of engaging in homosexual activity.