The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a press release on January 25, 2024, warning the public against engaging in unnatural offences and same-sex marriage, which are illegal in Nigeria.
The press release, signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, was prompted by a 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 NPF stated that unnatural offences, such as having carnal knowledge of a person or an animal against the order of nature, are prohibited under the Nigerian Criminal Code Act applicable in Southern States and the Nigerian Penal Code applicable in Northern States.
The NPF also stated that same-sex marriage is strictly prohibited in Nigeria under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014, which criminalizes the solemnization, operation, and public display of same-sex marriages.
The NPF emphasized the importance of understanding and adhering to these laws, as any violation will be met with due legal processes.
The NPF also urged all citizens to report any suspicious activities related to unnatural offences or same-sex marriage, and called on parents and guardians to support the police in the fight against such inhuman activities, which are alien to Nigerian culture and punishable under the law.
The press release by the NPF comes amid growing concerns over the human rights situation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people in Nigeria, who face severe challenges and discrimination in the country.
According to a report by Human Rights Watch, the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014 has led to an increase in violence, extortion, and harassment against LGBT people, as well as a crackdown on civil society organizations and individuals who support them.
The report also documented cases of arbitrary arrests, torture, and ill-treatment of LGBT people by the police and other security agents, as well as mob attacks, blackmail, and eviction by private actors.
The report called on the Nigerian government to repeal the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act and other laws that criminalize consensual same-sex conduct, and to protect the rights and dignity of all Nigerians, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.