Community declares ladies wanted over same-sex activities

A surprising incident involving two young women has unsettled the community of Ile Ife in Osun State, Nigeria. The incident, which took place on February 23, 2023, at Gity Royale Suites, has led to the local declaration of the women, identified as Oyedepo Deborah and Olaniyan Folake, as wanted over alleged homosexual activities.

Hotel staff reportedly discovered the women engaged in what was described as “erotic activities,” including kissing and fondling, and subsequently notified community elders and the police. These actions, which are considered taboo in Yoruba culture and criminalised under Nigerian law, prompted immediate local and legal action.

The Nigeria Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2013 criminalises any form of same-sex marriage, civil union, or public display of affection between persons of the same sex. The law prescribes penalties for involvement in, or witnessing of, such relationships.

In response to the incident, Oyedepo Deborah and Olaniyan Folake, both in their mid-20s, have reportedly fled the community to avoid arrest and legal consequences. The situation remains under investigation as authorities continue their search for the women.