There was a slight drama at the Ikeja Magistrate Court, Lagos yesterday as the Nigeria Police arraigned one Abibat Alabi for an offence relating to LGBTQ.
The suspect was brought to court premises in the company of the prosecuting Police officer in a Black Maria. In the charge sheet read by the court clerk, Abibat was accused of engaging in same-sex practice with one Shakirat Oloriegbe, who is still at large, which is in contravention of the Nigerian Criminal Code: Section 214.
As soon as the charge sheet was read to her, the suspect cried uncontrollably that the condition in the prison was unbearable and could lead to her death.
The suspect pleaded not guilty and demanded her release. She further said that her incarceration has denied her of her fundamental rights.
The lawyer representing the suspect immediately applied for bail on health grounds.
In his ruling, the Magistrate granted her bail in the sum of 5 million Naira with two sureties in like sum. The case was adjourned to 24 February 2025.
