The Nigeria Police Force has issued an arrest warrant for a pastor after he was accused of conducting same-sex weddings, an act that allegedly violated Nigerian law.
According to police sources, the arrest warrant was issued by the District Court [ No 1-9,
Authorities said the cleric officiated at the wedding of two adult men, violating provisions of the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2014 (SSMPA), which criminalizes same-sex marriage and related activities in Nigeria.
Confirming the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer said, [Name]said the warrant was issued following a formal complaint and subsequent investigation.
“The warrant was lawfully obtained after credible evidence was presented to the court. The suspect is expected to appear before law enforcement agencies to answer the charges,” the spokesman said.
Police further emphasized that the matter is under investigation and the suspect remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of competent jurisdiction.
Try to contact the pastor [Ebaikhin] At the time of filing this report, the request for comment had not been successful. However, an unnamed church member called the accusations “regrettable” and called for calm, urging authorities to allow due process to proceed.
Legal analysts point out that under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act (SSMPA) of 2014, individuals found guilty of performing or participating in same-sex marriage ceremonies may face severe penalties, including 15 [15] years in prison. However, human rights groups continue to express concerns about the law, citing issues related to personal freedoms and due process.
Police appealed to the public to come forward with any information that might help find the suspect, but also warned against taking the law into their own hands.
The case is expected to be [next court date] As the investigation continues.
