Counsel for convicted clergyman demands arrest of alleged accomplice in same-sex scandal

Following the recent conviction of Prophet Mesoye Esho, who was sentenced by a Lagos State High Court to fourteen years in prison for engaging in prohibited same-sex practices, the defense legal team has formally petitioned security agencies for the apprehension of his alleged partner, Buhari Babatunde Farouq. 

The legal practitioners, Barrister Titilayo Akintunde and Barrister Audu Tamilo, are contending that since the crime was purportedly committed in partnership, the principle of justice dictates that both individuals must face equal legal consequences.

The case, which has drawn significant public attention, dates back to November 2024 when the Odua People’s Congress (OPC) conducted several raids on Prophet Esho’s church located in the Egbe area of Lagos State. 

These operations were initiated following intelligence reports and surveillance conducted by factional OPC commanders in Ayobo and Ikotun-Egbe. 

The surveillance allegedly established that the clergyman and Babatunde Farouq were engaged in a long-term same-sex relationship, an act that led to a tactical raid in which Prophet Esho was apprehended while his alleged partner managed to evade capture.

Following his arrest, Prophet Esho remained in police custody throughout a trial that concluded in January 2026. The High Court found him guilty under Section 5(1) of the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014, which mandates strict penalties for individuals found participating in same-sex unions or related activities. 

While the court has moved to finalize the Prophet’s sentencing, the defense maintains that the case remains incomplete so long as the second party to the alleged offense remains at large.

The legal team has urged the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to intensify their search for Buhari Babatunde Farouq to ensure he is brought before the court to face similar charges. 

As of this report, Babatunde Farouq’s whereabouts remain unknown, though the police, in collaboration with the OPC and various community vigilante groups, have reportedly activated tracking measures to locate and arrest the suspect in a bid to fulfill the requirements of the law.