Community declared Elijah Okewole wanted over alleged same-sex relationship in Benin
Nearly a year after a man was brutally killed in Benin City over an alleged same-sex relationship, his partner, Elijah Okewole, has reportedly been declared “wanted” by members of the Ugbighoko community, who now claim his absence is responsible for recent misfortunes.
Sources say the community is allegedly seeking to offer Mr. Okewole as a ‘sacrifice’ to appease what they believe to be spiritual unrest.
In May 2024, an incident involving Mr. Osagie, a native of Benin, and Mr. Okewole, who had recently relocated to Benin for work, came to light.
Despite both men being married with children, they reportedly engaged in a secret sexual relationship. This affair was allegedly discovered by Mr. Osagie’s wife at their home, according to a source close to the family.
After the discovery, Mr. Okewole is said to have fled to Lagos to escape potential repercussions.
Sadly, Mr. Osagie faced severe backlash from his family and community. The source, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that Mr. Osagie was brutally killed.
“Later that evening, Osagie was taken by his family, paraded naked through the community, and subjected to severe beating and torture, which ultimately led to his death,” the source revealed.
Furthermore, the source claimed that this was not an isolated incident, recalling a previous occurrence in December when two men caught in a same-sex act were allegedly killed in front of their families.
“They claimed their blood must be split,” the source chillingly recounted.
“Bisexual is an abomination in this community, everyone knows that, also in Nigeria. This community leader does not take it lightly with anyone. It is an act of abomination, and punishment is fatal.”
Nearly a year after Mr. Okewole’s escape, the community is reportedly calling for his return. Sources suggest that they believe his absence is connected to the misfortunes affecting the community.
They are seeking him as a sacrifice to appease what they perceive as spiritual unrest.
