The Ondo State Police Command has launched an intensive manhunt for a woman identified as Owoeye Abiodun Benedicta over alleged involvement in organising a private gathering linked to same-sex activities in Akure.
The 34-year-old suspect is accused of hosting what authorities described as an LGBTQ gathering on December 25, 2025, at 25 Iwalewe Street, Akure, Ondo State, where several individuals who are reportedly lesbian, gay biscxual, etcetera engaged in same-sex conduct.
According to security sources, the gathering was disrupted during a joint operation by the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups. The raid led to the arrest of several participants, while the alleged organiser and some others escaped from the scene.
Authorities said identities of the fleeing suspects were established
through interrogation of those arrested, as well as items recovered at the scene, including mobile phones and identification materials.
A police source, who requested anonymity as he was not authorised to speak officially, confirmed that Owoeye Abiodun Benedicta, an indigene of Akure and former resident of 23 Gaga Street, Akure, has been identified as a prime suspect.
The source added that efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend her, expressing confidence that the combined efforts of the police, vigilante groups, and community intelligence would lead to her arrest.
Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act criminalises same-sex relationships and related gatherings, with offenders liable to imprisonment under the law.
As of the time of filing this report, attempts to reach the Ondo State Police Command for an otlicial statement were unsuccessful.