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The Lagos State Police Command has launched an intensified manhunt for two men accused of engaging in a same-sex relationship, in a case that underscores Nigeria’s continued enforcement of laws criminalizing homosexuality.
The suspects, identified as Adekunle Young Adetunji, 43, and Samuel Ibhafidon Olumese, 54, were allegedly caught on June 30, 2025, at a residence located at No. 3, Wera Estate, Eyita, in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.
According to police authorities, the two men fled after the incident, prompting an investigation by the Lagos State Police Command. In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, investigators said digital tracking later traced one of the suspects, Adetunji, to Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Police said Adetunji allegedly sought refuge with a family friend, identified as Adewale Aderemi, on July 1, 2025. Aderemi was subsequently arrested for questioning but was later granted bail.
During interrogation, Aderemi reportedly told investigators that Adetunji left his residence on October 15, 2025, after informing him that he intended to return to Lagos. Since then, he said, he has had no further contact with the suspect and does not know his whereabouts.
Authorities said efforts to locate both suspects have since been intensified across Lagos and neighboring states. Investigators are also continuing to question associates and examine possible leads that could aid in their arrest.
Nigeria maintains some of the strictest anti-LGBTQ laws in Africa. In 2014, former President Goodluck Jonathan signed the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act into law. The legislation bans same-sex marriage, same-sex cohabitation, and public displays of same-sex relationships, with offenders facing severe legal penalties.
