By Efe Onodjae

A Lagos-based family has fled their home, following a violent mob attack triggered by allegations of homosexuality against two brothers.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday, March 30, at a popular lounge in the Ojodu Berger area of Lagos, has sparked public concern over the rise in the citizen-led enforcement of Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act.

Witnesses say the confrontation began when another patron accused the brothers of being in a same-sex relationship. The accusation quickly escalated into a fight, forcing a mass evacuation from the venue.

“The place emptied out quickly,” a witness said. “People feared what could happen next. When anti-gay mobs strike, it’s usually brutal.”

The chaos spilled into the streets before a police patrol intervened. Officers arrested several people, including the accused brothers and their accuser. The case took a dramatic turn when one of the arrested individuals was revealed to be the son of a prominent religious cleric.

At the police station, tensions rose further as the cleric confronted the father of the accused brothers. Eyewitnesses described a heated exchange that nearly turned violent before officers and bystanders stepped in.

Further reports identified the brothers as sons of a senior government official and a wellknown businessman. Following their release from custody, their home in the Okota area was attacked. Neighbours said the house has remained empty since.

“They packed up and left overnight,” a resident told reporters. “Their gate was broken, and the place looked ransacked. No one has returned.”

The 2014 Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act criminalizes same-sex relationships, marriage, and public displays of affection between same-sex individuals. It also prohibits participation in LGBTQ+ organizations or events, with violators facing up to 10 years in prison. While the law is meant to be enforced by the state, recent years have seen an increase in violent, mob-led enforcement actions.
“It’s dangerous when an accusation becomes punishment,” said a human rights activist. “People are taking the law into their own hands, and innocent lives are at risk.”

Legal experts and activists warn that such extrajudicial actions reflect a growing disregard for due process., and have urged authorities to crack down on mob justice. The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that charges are being considered.

As of the time of this report, the family’s whereabouts remained unknown. Neighbours said their phones had been switched off, and relatives had remained silent, citing fear of further attacks.

In the Okota community, the incident has stirred a mix of sympathy and condemnation. While some residents denounce the mob action, others support it, revealing deep divisions in societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues in Nigeria.

“This situation has left people shaken,” said one neighbour. “Whether or not the allegations are true, no one deserves to be hunted out of their home.”

Police are expected to release an official statement as investigations continue.