Authorities in Edo and Rivers States have declared Queensley Okundia wanted following allegations of engaging in a same-sex relationship with a married woman — an act criminalised under Nigerian law.
According to community and security sources, the incident dates back to September 2021, when Okundia was allegedly discovered with her partner by the woman’s brother-in-law. The matter was reported to the husband, who escalated it to local vigilantes and later police authorities.
Okundia initially went into hiding after vigilantes allegedly stormed her family home in Benin, warning that she had committed an “abomination” and demanding she be handed over for traditional punishment.
She later fled to Lagos, where further threats were reportedly issued.
Police sources said Okundia, in her bid to avoid arrest, escaped to Benin City, her birthplace, “forcing the police authorities to declare her wanted to face criminal prosecution.”
Same-sex relationships are outlawed in Nigeria under the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act of 2013, with offenders facing sentences ranging from three to 14 years in prison.
In northern states where Sharia law is enforced, the maximum penalty is death.
The Edo State Police Command has urged anyone with information about her whereabouts to report to its headquarters on Central Road, Benin City, or to the nearest police station.
“We are committed to continue to guard against any illegal sexual behaviours in the country and bring offenders to book. Investigations are still ongoing,” said Chidi Neabuzor, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, in a statement.