By Ismail Akorede.
The Oyo State Police Command has declared Olaomonitan Anuolowapo Bukola, a mother of two from Ibadan, wanted for alleged homosexual acts, a criminal offense under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, 2014.
The declaration follows a complaint filed by her husband, who accused her of being in a continued romantic relationship with a female lover. He presented sex videos and photographs allegedly provided by Bukola’s ex-boyfriend as evidence of the affair.
According to police sources, Olaomonitan Anuolowapo Bukola had left their home without consent, reportedly staying at her mother’s house. Prior to that, she was said to have gone missing for several days and failed to explain her whereabouts when she returned.
However, according to our correspondent in Ibadan, new information has emerged indicating that Olaomonitan Anuolowapo Bukola was allegedly assaulted by her husband during a domestic altercation following the confrontation over the video evidence. She was reportedly stabbed on her right index finger and required hospital treatment. This assault was never disclosed to the police by the husband when he filed his complaint.
Despite this, Olaomonitan Anuolowapo Bukola was invited for questioning by the State Intelligence Bureau (SID), Eleyele, Ibadan, but failed to appear. The police say multiple attempts to contact her failed, and she has since gone into hiding. Her two children are currently in the care of her elder sister.
SP Adewale Osifeso, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Oyo State Police Command, stated:
“Olaomonitan Anuolowapo Bukola is wanted in connection with serious criminal allegations. We are also open to any counterclaims or reports against her accuser, provided they are made officially. We received a formal complaint supported by pictures and video evidence. Efforts to reach the suspect have failed. She is hereby declared wanted for acts that contravene Section 5(3) of the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act,” the statement read.
Under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, signed into law in 2014, individuals found guilty of engaging in or supporting same-sex relationships can face up to 14 years in prison.
He reiterated that anyone harboring her would be prosecuted under the law.
The case continues to stir controversy, with rights activists raising concerns over the selective handling of justice, especially in light of the alleged domestic violence.
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