By Our Correspondent

BENIN CITY — The Edo State Police Command has declared Edwin Omoregie, a father of three, wanted in connection with an alleged same-sex relationship incident that triggered a violent community attack and later culminated in the death of another man, Osahon, while in police custody.

According to accounts obtained by this newspaper, the incident occurred on October 1 2025, Nigeria’s Independence Day, at Omoregie’s residence located at No. 38 Edosomwan Street, Benin City, Edo State.

Sources said loud music was playing inside the house, making it difficult to hear knocks on the door before a group of angry youths reportedly forced their way in.

The intruders allegedly found Omoregie and Osahon unclothed and proceeded to assault both men while contacting the police. Witnesses said the beating was severe and prolonged.

Omoregie reportedly sustained multiple injuries during the attack, including heavy bleeding from the nose that resulted in a fracture. His right hand was said to have been broken, while his right knee suffered a serious fracture after he was slammed to the ground by the assailants.

A youth said to be familiar with Omoregie reportedly intervened and suggested that he be taken to a nearby pharmacy, located about two streets away, for urgent treatment before the police arrived. Omoregie was subsequently taken from the scene and did not return.

Osahon remained at the residence and was taken into custody when police officers arrived. He was later pronounced dead while in custody.

Meanwhile a preliminary police report suggested that his death resulted from internal injuries allegedly sustained during the mob attack on both men.

Following the incident, police declared Omoregie wanted for alleged gross violation of the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act (2013).

Authorities said investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the mob action, the injuries sustained by the victims, and the death in custody.
The police have appealed to members of the public with information on Omoregie’s whereabouts to contact the nearest police station, assuring that all tips will be treated with strict confidentiality.