The Nigerian Police have intensified efforts to apprehend a Nigerian man, Adeyemo Smith Olaoluwa, who was declared wanted in January 2024 for alleged involvement in same-sex relationships.
Adeyemo was reported to the Ogun State Police Command by community leaders in Kila, Odeda Local Government Area, over allegations of engaging in and promoting same-sex activities, including allegedly initiating young boys into the act. Following the report, he has been on the run, with his current whereabouts unknown.
The search for Adeyemo comes in the wake of Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act (SSMPA), which was signed into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan on January 7, 2014. The law criminalizes same-sex relationships, cohabitation, and public displays of affection between same-sex partners, imposing penalties of up to 10 years in prison for those who participate in or support LGBTQ+ organizations.
The Police have urged the public to provide any useful information that could lead to Adeyemo’s arrest, assuring that such information will be handled with utmost confidentiality. Anyone with relevant details is encouraged to report to the nearest police station.
