...Family questioned as police urge suspect to submit to investigation
By Lekan Lisoye
The Edo State Police Command said it has commenced an investigation into the alleged involvement of a young man, identified as Olatunji Joseph Akerele, in activities said to contravene Nigeria's Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act.
The Command said the investigation followed a report lodged by youths in the Ugbighoko community, who alleged that Akerele and one, Osayuwamen Ogie were involved in same-sex activities and demanded that law enforcement authorities take appropriate action.
Speaking on the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Edo State, CSP Eno Nkereuwem Ikoedem, confirmed that the matter had been reported to the Command and that investigations were ongoing.
According to the police spokesperson, officers subsequently visited the residence of Mrs. Osarumwense Doris Akerele and Mr. Oladipo Emmanuel Akerele in search of the suspect.
The officers reportedly informed the family that Olatunji Joseph Akerele and his partner, Osayuwamen Ogie were required for questioning in connection with the allegations and requested that they be produced to assist with the ongoing investigation.
Residents familiar with the incident disclosed that Mrs. Akerele became emotional during the visit and pleaded with the officers, explaining that she did not know her son's whereabouts.
Despite the family's appeal, the police reportedly maintained that efforts to locate the suspect would continue until he is found and questioned over the allegations.
A Community leader Oboh Anthony said the matter has generated widespread discussion within Ugbighoko, where the allegations first surfaced before being reported to the police.
It was gathered that Akerele has remained out of public view since the incident became known, with efforts by both community members and security operatives to trace him yet to yield results.
The Police Spokesperson confirmed stressed that the investigation remains active and that all actions taken would be in accordance with the law.
The Command also urged members of the public to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, noting that allegations of criminal conduct should be handled through lawful processes.
Residents were further encouraged to cooperate with investigators by providing any useful information that could assist the police in arresting the culprits and in establishing the facts surrounding the case.
Eno Nkereuwem Ikoedem, reiterated that every suspect is entitled to due process and that investigations are aimed at establishing the truth before any further legal action is taken.
As of the time of filing this report, Olatunji Joseph Akerele and his partner Osayuwamen Ogie had not been arrested, while the Edo State Police Command said efforts to locate the duo and conclude its investigation were continuing.
The development comes amid renewed enforcement efforts by law enforcement agencies across the country regarding offences prohibited under existing Nigerian laws, with the Edo State Police Command reaffirming its commitment to investigating all reported cases in line with the law.
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