Secret Bail for Two Men Tried for Homosexuality in Nigeria Sparks Reactions |Omohglobalnews

• Two men accused of homosexuality were secretly granted bail by a court in western Nigeria.
• Their release was reportedly kept confidential to protect them from mob violence.
• Similar quiet releases have been reported in northern states.
• Human rights observers say secrecy around such trials reflects deep social hostility toward LGBTQ persons
• 

A court in western Nigeria has quietly granted bail to two men standing trial for charges related to homosexuality — a development that has drawn mixed reactions from legal observers and human rights advocates.

The defendants, Adeola Olakunmi and Olasunkanmi Ajewole, were arrested and charged on January 6, 2024, for allegedly belonging to a gay club and receiving financial support from the United States to expand its membership.

Multiple sources confirmed that their release was deliberately kept secret for security reasons. A court document dated March 11, 2024, ordered their release on bail. A prison officer, who spoke anonymously, explained:

“Many of these cases are handled quietly to protect the accused from mob violence. In most instances, those charged with homosexuality are not held for long — they are often released discreetly.”

Secrecy Driven by Fear

Homosexuality remains both criminalized and heavily stigmatized in Nigeria. Under federal law, offenders face up to 14 years in prison, while in several northern states governed by Sharia law, punishment can extend to death by stoning, if there are four witnesses or a confession.

The risks surrounding such cases became evident on January 23, 2024, when an angry crowd attacked the accused during a court session, throwing stones and demanding their execution. Police officers intervened and dispersed the mob with tear gas.

Since that incident, court sessions involving similar charges have been held in secret. Trial dates and hearing venues are often undisclosed to prevent further public disturbances or violence.

Similar Quiet Releases in the North

In Bauchi State, a clerk at the Upper Sharia Court in Unguwar Jaki confirmed that three other men facing similar charges were granted bail on March 20, 2024.

“The judge observed that none of the accused were caught in the act, which is a key requirement for a death sentence under Sharia law,” said court clerk Abdul Mohammed. “This means they cannot be sentenced to death, even if convicted.”

Earlier Case Raises Concerns

In December 2023, OmohGlobalNews reported on Salau Abimbola Olanrewaju, who was charged for allegedly sexually harassing another man in a hotel. He was granted bail but later went missing.

According to police sources, Olanrewaju reportedly relocated with his family to an undisclosed location. Efforts are ongoing to trace him and the family members who stood as sureties for his bail.

Observers say the pattern of secret hearings, silent releases, and disappearances highlights the sensitivity surrounding homosexuality-related cases in Nigeria — where legal proceedings are often shaped by a tense mix of law, fear, and public hostility.