Police declare Man wanted for alleged bisexual offence
The Osun State Police Command has declared Mr. Dairo Frank Bayo wanted for allegedly engaging in a bisexual escapade, an offence deemed contrary to the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This declaration follows an incident that occurred on September 13, 2023, at his residence located at 28 Okebale, Osun State.
Mr. Bayo reportedly fled the area after suffering severe injuries during an attack by community vigilante groups and hoodlums opposed to homosexuality. He sustained injuries to his leg, head, and back, which required hospitalisation. In the wake of this violence, the police have urged anyone with information on his whereabouts to report to the nearest police station, warning that those who harbour or assist Mr. Bayo will face prosecution.
In an effort to escape the threats and stigma he experienced in Osogbo, Mr. Bayo relocated to Lagos, hoping for a more accepting environment. However, upon arrival, he found the situation to be even more challenging, facing intensified stigma and harassment that left him feeling isolated and vulnerable. Shunned from social gatherings and ostracised from various circles, Mr. Bayo now lives in constant fear for his safety.
The legal framework in Nigeria exacerbates the difficulties faced by bisexual individuals. The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2014 criminalizes any form of same-sex relationships, including bisexuality, allowing for the arrest and prosecution of individuals based on their sexual orientation. For Mr. Bayo, this harsh reality has become a daily ordeal, compounding the physical and emotional trauma he has endured.
Currently, Mr. Bayo is seeking support from international organisations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, hoping they can offer him protection. He remains hopeful that by sharing his story, he can raise awareness and garner support from both local and global communities.
As the situation unfolds, the Osun State Police Command continues to pursue Mr. Bayo’s arrest, reinforcing their warning against those who might assist him as a deterrent to others engaging in similar activities. The case highlights the pressing need for dialogue and reform regarding the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria.
