Security Operatives Declare Two suspects Wanted, as Artist Lynched Over Alleged Homosexual Activities
By Ade Philip -The security operatives in Edo State have declared two individuals identified as Victor Ogbebor and Sanni Abu, wanted in connection with a disturbing mob attack that led to the death of a young artist, Daniel Ojo, popularly known as “Danny Blue,” and alleged involvement in homosexual activities.
It was gathered that the tragic incident unfolded at Precious Palm Royal Hotel along the Lagos-Benin Expressway over the weekend, where a group of self-styled anti-gay crusaders reportedly stormed the venue of an event, following a tip-off.
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers claimed they were acting on information that members of the LGBTQ+ community were engaging in same-sex activity at the hotel during a social gathering.
Sources revealed that a hotel staff member, believed to be an informant sighted Daniel Ojo and two other individuals in a compromising situation backstage, after a performance by a musical group.
Source said the staffer quietly alerted a group of vigilante anti-gay enforcers, who stormed the premises and armed with weapons.
The attackers reportedly dragged the half-dressed victims into the open and beat them mercilessly. It was gathered that Ojo, a backup dancer known for his flamboyant performance style, sustained fatal injuries from the mob assault and was later confirmed dead.
Two others identified as Opia Benson and Dickson Osazee, however survived the attack but were subsequently handed over to the police and detained under Nigeria’s Anti gay law, section 214 of the criminal code for further investigation.
Following their arrest, they stand to face the penalty of 10 years imprisonment after conclusion of investigation.
While the attackers who carried out the brutal mob action remain at large, security operatives have shifted their focus to members of the LGBTQ+ community, intensifying a crackdown based on information allegedly extracted under duress from those in custody.
During interrogation, Benson and Osazee reportedly identified Victor Ogbebor and Sanni Abu as romantic partners of the deceased, prompting the police to declare both men wanted for questioning.
Meanwhile, Police source has claimed that Ogbebor was present during the attack and fled the scene, ignoring pleas for help from the dying Ojo. Eyewitnesses confirmed hearing Ojo call out for someone named Victor before succumbing to his injuries.
This is the second reported mob attack on LGBTQ+ individuals in Edo State this year, highlighting a growing trend of vigilante violence in response to suspected homosexual activity.
Despite repeated warnings from the police against jungle justice, no arrests have been made in connection with the lynching itself.
Police spokesperson in the state condemned the attack, reiterating that taking the law into one’s hands remains a criminal offense.
He however confirmed that a manhunt is now underway to apprehend Ogbebor, Abu, and other persons of interest allegedly linked to the incident.
The mother of the deceased, Mrs. Adele Ojo, a retired auxiliary nurse, described her son as a victim of hate and injustice. She has petitioned the state government and security operatives, demanding a thorough investigation and the arrest of those responsible for her son’s death.
As the police continue their search for Ogbebor and Abu, concerns mount over the increasing prevalence of targeted violence and the lack of legal accountability for mob actions driven by anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments.
