The Nigeria Police have declared Adebayo Adebolu Christopher, a 38-year-old Nigerian man, wanted for his alleged involvement in a same-sex relationship with Abidakun Emmanuel, 34, following a tragic incident that left Emmanuel dead.
The case emerged after Emmanuel was arrested at a wedding held at Point 1 Hotel and Suite in Owo, Ondo State, on 25 September 2019. During police questioning, Emmanuel admitted to the relationship and agreed to assist authorities in apprehending Adebolu in exchange for conditional release.
An anonymous source close to the investigation revealed that Emmanuel, who resides on Oludaye Street in Owo, confessed to practising bisexuality with Adebolu. This confession prompted police to raid Adebolu’s residence at 76 Isale Agbara Street, Ile-Ife, Osun State, only to find that he had travelled to an undisclosed location.
The community where Adebolu lived reacted strongly to the news, with local leaders and youths describing the situation as a serious offence that could bring misfortune and disgrace to their area. They vowed that Adebolu would face severe consequences to discourage others from engaging in similar acts, which they referred to as “evil”.
On 16 December 2019, during Adebolu’s birthday celebration at Joybam Hotel behind Liberty Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State, tragedy struck. Police officers attempting to arrest Adebolu discharged a bullet that unintentionally killed Emmanuel. The police are continuing efforts to locate and arrest Adebolu, who is expected to face prosecution.
The Police Authority has called on members of the public to provide information on Adebolu’s whereabouts to the nearest police station. They reminded the public that bisexuality is illegal in Nigeria and carries penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment. In parts of Northern Nigeria where Sharia law is enforced, the offence can lead to the death penalty by stoning.
The case has brought renewed attention to Nigeria’s strict laws on same-sex relationships and the ongoing tension surrounding their enforcement.