BREAKING: Nigerian Court Sentences LGBTQ+ Activist To Prison Amidst Reports Of Mob Attack And Escape

By Timothy Linus, The Reporter News

Osisioma, Abia State– In a controversial ruling that has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, a Magistrate Court in Osisioma LGA, Abia State, has convicted and sentenced Ms. Ebere Nwogu, a prominent LGBTQ+ activist, to two years imprisonment for allegedly living in a same-sex relationship.

Court Judgment Details
Presided over by Magistrate Ezekiel Nwankwo, the court found Nwogu guilty on three counts:

1. Same-sex cohabitation under Section 5(2) of the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act (SSMPA) 2013.

2. Resisting arrest (Section 126 of the Criminal Code).

3. Failure to appear in court (Section 131 of Abia State’s Criminal Justice Law).

Despite the accused’s absence, the court relied on testimonies from neighbors and vigilante members, as well as **photographic evidence, to convict her. The sentence includes:

- 2 years imprisonment for same-sex cohabitation.

- 6 months (concurrent) for evading arrest

- A ₦50,000 fine (or 3 months imprisonment) for ignoring court summons.

Unconfirmed Reports of Mob Violence and Escape*
While the court delivered its verdict, unverified sources allege that Nwogu narrowly escaped a lynching attempt by a mob allegedly led by local vigilantes. According to eyewitness accounts:

- Her apartment was razed, along with that of her partner, Ms. Jessica (last name withheld).

- She fled the state in a "near-death" condition

- Local authorities have yet to comment on the alleged attack.

Human Rights Outcry
The case has sparked outrage among LGBTQ+ advocates and international rights organizations. Nigeria’s SSMPA law, which criminalizes same-sex relationships with penalties up to 14 years, has long been condemned for enabling violence against queer Nigerians.

*The Ambassador * tweeted:
> "The sentencing of Ebere Nwogu underscores the deadly intersection of discriminatory laws and mob justice. Nigeria must repeal the SSMPA and protect its citizens."

Silence from Authorities
Efforts to reach the Abia State Police Command for comments on the mob attack were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ support networks claim Nwogu is now in hiding, fearing further persecution.

What’s Next?
Legal experts suggest Nwogu could appeal the judgment, but her current whereabouts remain unknown. Activists are calling for:
1. An investigation into the alleged vigilante violence

2. Medical and asylum assistance for Nwogu and her partner.

3. Repeal of the SSMPA, which the UN has labeled "a violation of human rights."


Key Takeaways:
✔️ Court sentenced Ebere Nwogu to 2 years for same-sex cohabitation.

✔️ Unconfirmed reports claim she survived a mob attack and fled State.

✔️ *Rights groups demand justice and law reforms.*

Stay with The Reporter for updates on this developing