Scandal Erupts in Church, as Same-Sex Act Sparks Public Outrage, Security Operative Manhunt

By Ade David

A scandal engulfed a Catholic Church in Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria recently after one Emmanuel Oluku, a housekeeper, and a suspected Rev. Father Francois, identified to be a senior church official were allegedly caught engaging in a same-sex act on church grounds on April 20, 2024.

It was gathered that the incident, discovered by a church worker, has provoked a wave of controversy, igniting outrage within both religious and local communities.

News of the event spread rapidly, drawing sharp condemnation. In Nigeria, where same-sex relationships are both illegal and culturally taboo, the public reaction has been intense.

Sources said crowds gathered outside the church in protest, with reports indicating that some individuals attempted to attack Emmanuel and Father Francois. Our correspondent learnt that eyewitnesses claim the two men narrowly escaped a lynching at the hands of an enraged mob, thanks to the intervention of local vigilantees who rescued them from the scene to ensure their safety.

It was gathered that the two men has now escaped but authorities have issued a statement declaring Emmanuel Oluku and Rev. Father Francois as “wanted” individuals. Security operatives are actively searching for the two men. They both face potential prosecution under Nigeria’s strict anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Security operatives have also appealed to the public for any information that might assist in locating them.

Both Emmanuel and Father Francois are currently in hiding, and their whereabouts remain unknown. As the investigation unfolds, the incident underscores the dangers faced by individuals accused of same-sex relationships in Nigeria. The nation’s legal and cultural stance on LGBTQ+ issues continue to criminalize such acts, often leaving those accused vulnerable to both legal consequences and public violence.