Tension and fear have reportedly spread among several individuals in Lagos State following the arrest of a group of women at Dreamland Hotel, Sangotedo, on Friday, 28 April 2023, over alleged involvement in a homosexual association known as “Black Queens.”
According to information obtained from security sources, the women were arrested during a private gathering at the hotel and subsequently taken in for interrogation. During questioning, some of those arrested allegedly disclosed the names of other individuals believed to be members or associates of the group who were unable to attend the gathering.
Among the names reportedly mentioned during the interrogation are:
Olajumoke Aiyedun
Shola Daramola
Ajibola Yetunde
Agbihe Joy
Abimbola Ogunade
It was gathered that the individuals named were not present at the venue at the time of the arrests. However, sources say they have since become apprehensive and fearful of being targeted by law enforcement agencies or subjected to harassment, arrest, or public exposure due to their alleged association.
In Nigeria, allegations or suspicions of homosexuality often result in severe consequences, including arrest, prolonged detention, public shaming, mob violence, and prosecution under existing laws. Human rights observers have repeatedly noted that individuals identified through raids or interrogations are frequently pursued after the initial incident, even if they were not present at the scene.
As of the time of this report, the individuals whose names were mentioned are believed to still be residing in Nigeria and have reportedly altered their daily routines out of fear for their safety. There has been no official confirmation from the police regarding whether further arrests or invitations for questioning are planned.
The incident has once again raised concerns about the safety and protection of persons perceived to belong to sexual minority groups in the country, particularly where law enforcement agencies are directly involved in such operations.