By David Adedeji.

The family of Temitope Ayodele Fakolade, a 45-year-old man from Ikeja, Lagos State, has expressed growing fear for his safety following reports that a warrant of arrest has been issued for him over allegations linked to his sexual orientation and an alleged same-sex relationship.

According to information provided by the family through their lawyer, Mr Fakolade identifies as a gay man and had allegedly lived discreetly for years due to Nigeria’s strict laws and widespread social hostility toward members of the LGBTQ community.

Family sources say he was in a private relationship with a man identified as George Ayaniran, a relationship that was reportedly kept secret from relatives and neighbours for fear of persecution.

The family said trouble erupted on April 1, 2025, when members of the community allegedly forced their way into Mr Fakolade’s residence after suspecting his involvement in a same-sex relationship.

The incident reportedly sparked mob violence, during which Mr Fakolade and his partner were attacked.

Mr. Fakolade was said to have sustained serious injuries and was later taken into police custody, while his partner was allegedly seized by other members of the crowd.

The family claims they subsequently received distressing information that Mr Ayaniran may have died following the attack, a development that has intensified fears of reprisals against Mr Fakolade.

According to the family, Mr Fakolade’s medical condition was critical, prompting urgent intervention to secure treatment at a private hospital in Lagos, where he reportedly underwent surgery and weeks of care. They said the move was motivated by fears that his life remained in danger due to heightened hostility linked to his alleged sexual orientation.

The situation worsened, the family said, when they received information in the early days of January 2026 that a warrant of arrest had been issued for Mr Fakolade.

The warrant is reportedly connected to his alleged escape from custody and possible prosecution under Nigerian laws that criminalise same-sex relationships.

“The arrest warrant has placed him in even greater danger,” a family source said.

“Beyond the legal issues, there is real fear for his life because of the stigma and violence often directed at people perceived to be gay.

For security reasons, Mr Fakolade was reportedly moved out of Lagos after his recovery and later taken to a temporary hideout near the Seme border area.

His family said this decision was taken after intelligence suggested he was being actively searched for and could face further attacks and death, if located.

While Mr Fakolade’s whereabouts remain undisclosed, his family says they are deeply worried about his safety and wellbeing. They have appealed to law enforcement authorities to ensure that his rights and life are protected at any time, he happened to return to the country, urging that the matter be handled strictly within the bounds of the law and without exposure to mob violence and death.