This week, a gay couple was beaten and paraded in public because of their sexual orientation.
In a video clip shared by X’s Portharcourt Specials, a couple who appeared half-naked were insulted and slapped on the back, one of whom was left with blood stains on his back. The incident occurred in Rumuewala, Port Harcourt.
Although consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Nigeria and punishable by the death penalty in some states, many Nigerians view the attack on the couple as disgusting and believe that they are rapists and child abusers. He argued that sexual people do not receive the same treatment.
“Here you can see Nigerians being very active. Why should someone’s sexual orientation be your problem? We don’t want politicians to punish us harshly. ,” said human rights activist Linu Oduala.
LGBTQ rights group No Hate Network Nigeria said the couple’s public attack was a stark reminder of the country’s rampant homophobia.
“This brutal attack on a gay couple is horrifying and unacceptable,” the group said. “This is a stark reminder of the rampant homophobia and intolerance in Nigeria.”
“Such violence is often caused by discriminatory laws, social norms, and a lack of education, and this incident highlights the urgent need for stronger advocacy, education, and protection for LGBTQI+ individuals. ” No Hate Network Nigeria added.
No Hate Network Nigeria also highlighted the plight of the country’s LGBTQ people, who are constantly under attack due to current laws and cultural and religious norms.
No Hate Network Nigeria said: “Nigeria’s LGBTQI+ community faces extreme risks of violence, harassment and persecution. The Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2014 will further exacerbate these challenges and threaten LGBTQI+ “This effectively criminalizes individuals.” “Many people hide their identities and live in fear to avoid persecution. Communities need increased support, safe spaces and strong advocacy to ensure their basic human rights. I need it.”
For many LGBTQ people in this country, remaining in the closet is the only way to protect their lives. If they decide to come out, they often flee Nigeria.
Currently, no legislators are attempting to amend or repeal the portion of Article 21 of the Criminal Code Act, which applies to the arrest, indictment, and prosecution of people who identify as LGBTQ.
In northern states where Sharia law is practiced, anyone found to be LGBTQ or an LGBTQ advocate can be stoned to death.
Although not widely practiced, death by stoning is the preferred punishment in many northern states for those found guilty by Sharia courts of engaging in consensual same-sex sexual relations. There is. In recent years, many domestic and international human rights groups have condemned this punishment. However, it is still in effect in some of these states.
No Hate Network Nigeria said amending parts of the criminal law and repealing the Homosexuality (Prohibition) Act could provide relief to LGBTQ people in the country.
“Repeat or amend discriminatory laws such as the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, carry out education and awareness campaigns to combat homophobia, establish safe spaces and support networks for LGBTQI+ individuals. “Holding perpetrators accountable will help avoid and combat attacks against LGBTQI+ individuals,” No Hate Network Nigeria said. Ta.
Source: Washington Blade: LGBTQ News, Politics, LGBTQ Rights, Gay News – www.washingtonblade.com
