Nigeria: 40 arrested for “homosexual acts” in Lagos

Event

More than 40 Nigerian men were arrested in Lagos on July 29 at a private event in a hotel; the incident serves as a reminder to travelers to the country of ongoing homophobia and legal restrictions on same-sex relationships throughout the country. An official police spokesperson told media that around 40 "suspected homosexuals" had been arrested and would be appearing in court to face charges. A local activist has said that the private event at the hotel was organized to offer counseling and testing for HIV.

Context

Homosexuality is considered taboo across much of Nigeria's conservative society and has been outright banned at an institutional level. Nigerian courts criminalized same-sex relationships in 2014 under a bill signed by then-Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan. The "Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Bill" stipulates lengthy prison sentences for individuals entering into a same-sex marriage. Same-sex acts are also punishable by fines and up to 14 years in jail, while public displays of affection are punishable by up to ten years in prison. Additionally, the bill criminalizes the running, support, or involvement in LGBT advocacy groups, clubs, and societies, and can carry a prison sentence of up to ten years.

In a number of northern states (Borno, Bauchi, Gombe, Jigwa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zambfara) Sharia law may also apply; punishment may even include death.

Advice

LGBT travelers to Nigeria are reminded to be aware of local attitudes towards same-sex relationships at all times. Travelers are advised not to openly engage in same-sex relations, including seemingly innocuous public displays of affection, given the serious legal ramifications associated with any such activity.

Foreign nationals should also be mindful of the legal implications of involvement or support for LGBT advocacy groups, which may result in fines or imprisonment.