Olowoosi David Oluwatosin, a 27-year-old resident of Oko-Afo in the Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State, narrowly escaped a life-threatening mob attack on January 22, 2020, over same-sex activities.
The incident reportedly occurred in a building near his residence, where an angry mob attacked and injured him, intending to lynch him. When police arrived the scene, the ensuing chaos allowed him to escape.
According to preliminary investigations by ARISE AFRICA NEWSPAPER, based on accounts from residents, sources said Oluwatosin may have been lured under false pretenses. The encounter was allegedly planned as a trap, which led to him being confronted and attacked.
Oluwatosin had returned to the community a few days earlier to attend the funeral of his uncle, Chief Gbadebo Olowoosi, a respected community leader.
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Nigeria, where homosexuality and lesbianism are criminalized. Several northern states operating under Sharia law prescribe severe punishments, including imprisonment, caning, and death by stoning.
A friend of Oluwatosin, who requested anonymity, said he contacted him weeks after the incident. According to the friend, Oluwatosin said it’s true,that he is sexually attracted to both men and women, but on that day he was deceived by someone who feigned romantic interest, resulting in the attack
He also described tensions with his family, who condemned the act. He managed to escape after the incident to abuja to continue his business, he escaped not only from the attackers but also from community members he feared might hand him over to authorities. He confessed that he continued his sexual relationship with his male partner in Abuja, although his partner died three days ago. The friend said Oluwatosin believes his partner’s death was caused by what he described as a spiritual attack from his family and community.
Oluwatosin said “sexual minorities in Nigeria face criminalization, stigma, and rejection, with no legal protection or support”. Revealing oluwatosin next plan to flee Nigeria to a place where is interest can be protected.
The friend concluded by quoting Oluwatosin, who said, “I killed a man and the world forgave me, but I loved a man and the world wanted to kill me.”