The Nigerian police have raided an alleged gay wedding in Warri, Delta State. They arrested several individuals under the country’s anti-gay laws, which make same-sex relations illegal. This crackdown on LGBTQ+ gatherings is part of broader efforts to enforce these laws in Nigeria.
Police Commissioner Wale Abbas confirmed the mass arrests at a hotel off Refinery Road in Ekpan, Warri. According to Deputy Superintendent Bright Edafe, the operation began after police intercepted a cross-dresser who revealed details about the planned ceremony.
The event allegedly involved Daniel Pius as the groom and 22-year-old Maxwel Ohwonohwo as the “bride.” During the raid, many attendees attempted to escape, leading to a police pursuit and multiple arrests of both male and female suspects.
Abel Daniel, 23, one of those arrested, provided a statement to police claiming he participated in homosexual activities while under the influence of alcohol. He named two individuals who escaped during the raid as Egwuonwu Sabinus Onyeka and Okafor Chibuike Daniel, whom he identified as friends who attended the wedding party with him.
Police recovered tramadol, other hard drugs, and what they described as “gay marriage ceremonial dresses” from the venue.
