Nigerian Man Flees Country Amid LGBTQ-Related Threats, Legal Risks

By Kanu Samuel

A Nigerian man, Oluyemi Ogundeji,  has reportedly fled the country after facing threats to his life following accusations of involvement in homosexual activities—an act criminalized under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014.

According to sources close to the matter, Oluyemi had been under scrutiny in his community after rumors surfaced alleging his connection to LGBTQ-related activities. Tensions reportedly escalated after the community learned of his alleged orientation, leading to threats of violence against him.

Community reactions were reportedly intense, with some residents openly expressing anger and intolerance toward Oluyemi. The situation became more volatile in light of a previous incident in August 2024, when a cross-dresser known locally as “Abuja Area Mama” was lynched to death by a mob in the capital city. The victim was reportedly attacked for allegedly having links to LGBTQ groups—a case that sparked national and international condemnation from human rights organizations.

Human rights advocates say Oluyemi’s case is part of a troubling trend. “There’s an increasing pattern of extrajudicial actions and mob justice being directed at people suspected of being LGBTQ in Nigeria,” said a legal advocate from a Lagos-based NGO, speaking anonymously for safety concerns. “The law not only criminalizes same-sex relationships, but it also creates a climate where vigilante attacks are normalized.”

Under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, enacted in January, 2014, individuals found guilty of engaging in same-sex relationships or promoting LGBTQ organizations can face up to 14 years in prison. The law has been widely criticized by global human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, who argue it violates fundamental rights to freedom of expression, association, and privacy.

At the time of this report, Oluyemi’s current whereabouts remain undisclosed for security reasons.

Nigeria’s government has not commented on the case, and police say they have not received official reports relating to threats against Oluyemi.