By Lekan Lisoye
Tension is mounting in parts of Ikenne Remo Local Government Area of Ogun State following threats allegedly issued by some youths against Abidemi Reuben Sopitan, an indigene of Ilisan Remo, warning him not to return to the community over allegations surrounding his past activities.
The warning, which reportedly circulated through local meetings and social media platforms, followed claims that Sopitan operated a private men’s club in Ilisan Remo that was allegedly linked to same-sex gatherings, a matter considered highly controversial within the conservative community.
Sources in the area said the youths accused Sopitan of promoting activities they described as “contrary to local values and Nigerian law,” and vowed to resist his return if he attempts to come back to the country.
Efforts to independently verify the authenticity of the threats were ongoing at the time of filing this report, but community members confirmed that discussions around Sopitan’s possible return had heightened tensions in recent weeks.
Sopitan, born on June 12, 1978, in Ilisan Remo, Ogun State, reportedly left Nigeria in January 2024 and later sought asylum in the Netherlands, citing fears for his safety if he returned home.
Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, signed into law in 2014 by former President Goodluck Jonathan, prescribes penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment for same-sex relationships and also criminalises participation in gay clubs and associations.
Community sources in Ilisan Remo alleged that Sopitan operated a hospitality facility known as “MM Royal Clubhouse,” which they claimed functioned as a discreet meeting place for adult men.
In 2023, the facility was reportedly attacked and vandalised by unidentified persons following accusations that it harboured individuals involved in criminal activities, though no official police report confirming those allegations was immediately available.
A youth leader in Ikenne, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “Our community has strong traditional and religious values. We will not tolerate anything that brings shame to our land.”
However, another resident cautioned against violence, urging community members to allow security agencies handle any legal concerns rather than resorting to threats.
Beyond the controversy surrounding the club, Sopitan is also facing pressure from members of the Reformed Ogboni Fraternity, a traditional socio-cultural group in parts of Yorubaland, to succeed his late grandfather in the organisation.
Security analysts note that cases involving alleged LGBTQ activities often generate strong reactions in some communities in southern Nigeria, where social attitudes toward homosexuality remain largely conservative.
Legal practitioners contacted for comments explained that while Nigerian law criminalises same-sex relationships, accusations of wrongdoing must still be handled through lawful processes and not through mob action.
When contacted, an official of the Ogun State Police Command declined detailed comments but reiterated that threats, violence, and destruction of property remain criminal offences under Nigerian law.
Human rights advocates argue that regardless of public opinion, individuals accused of any offence are entitled to due process and protection from extrajudicial harm.
Meanwhile, family members of Sopitan in Ilisan Remo have reportedly expressed concern over the escalating rhetoric, fearing that further agitation could disrupt peace in the community.
Observers say the development highlights the continuing tension between traditional values, evolving global human rights conversations, and Nigeria’s existing legal framework on same-sex relationships.
No comments:
Post a Comment