News
Bold Steps Needed: Addressing Anti-Gay Violence, Laws In Nigeria
In Kastina State, Nigeria, a horrifying incident has recently come to light – a man was burned alive by an angry mob on the suspicion of being gay.
This tragedy has brought attention to the contentious anti-gay bill that the state has implemented.
Homosexuality is not only illegal in the Nigerian legal framework, carrying a potential 14-year imprisonment, but it is also considered abominable and punishable by death under the sharia laws enforced in several Nigerian states.
The Incident And Its Aftermath
The unfortunate incident was reported in a statement by the Coalition of Good Governance in Northern State, signed by Jamiu Hassa. According to the statement, a man named Ifeanyi Lucky narrowly escaped the mob’s wrath, but his boyfriend, Uche Naka, was not as fortunate. Caught making out with Uche Naka, Lucky was quickly apprehended, and the youths in the community resorted to jungle justice, burning Uche Naka alive. The community, demanding justice, is relentlessly searching for Mr. Lucky, stating he must face the same punishment as his partner if found.
The Widespread Reality
Regrettably, this is not an isolated incident. In Nigeria, individuals involved in same-sex activities face the risk of being sentenced to death by stoning or subjected to extrajudicial killings by members of the community. The LGBTQ+ community in the country lives in fear and uncertainty, as their sexual orientation remains illegal, punishable, and deemed abominable. Capital punishment looms over them, a stark reality that defies the principles of equality and human rights.
The Controversial Anti-Gay Bill
The incident in Kastina brings into sharp focus the controversial anti-gay bill signed into law by the state. Such legislation not only perpetuates discrimination but also fuels violence and hatred towards the LGBTQ+ community. To protect human rights and foster inclusivity, it is imperative to reevaluate and challenge these laws that violate the principles of freedom and equality.
Sharia Law And Its Impact
The enforcement of sharia law in several Nigerian states further compounds the plight of the LGBTQ+ community. With death penalties for homosexuality under sharia, the community faces unimaginable threats and persecution. An urgent examination of the compatibility between these laws and universal human rights is necessary to create a more just and compassionate society.
The Call For Change
The tragedy in Kastina serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for change in Nigeria’s approach to LGBTQ+ rights. The state and national authorities must work towards decriminalizing same-sex relationships and offer protection to vulnerable individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. Embracing diversity and fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding are vital steps towards progress.
The incident in Kastina reflects the stark reality faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria. The combination of anti-gay legislation and sharia law has created a hostile environment, leading to violence and death. Urgent measures are necessary to protect the human rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. Addressing these issues and fostering a more inclusive society will require courage and commitment from policymakers, civil society, and citizens alike. Only through collective efforts can Nigeria move towards a future where every individual can live free from fear and discrimination.
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
A Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Kafanchan, Reverend Father Sylvester Okechukwu, has been killed by suspected bandits in Kaura Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The victim until his murder was the Priest in-charge of St Mary Catholic Church Tachira in Kaura Local Government Area.
the Chancellor of Kafanchan Catholic Archdiocese, Reverend Father Jacob Shanet in a statement obtained by ELANZA NEWS, said Reverend Father Okechukwu was kidnapped at his residence on 4th March, 2025 at around 9:15 Pm, but was confirmed killed on Ash Wednesday morning of March 5, 2025.
He added that the reason why he was killed is yet to be determined.
” This untimely and brutal loss has left us heartbroken and devastated. Fr Sylvester was a dedicated servant of God, who worked selflessly in the vineyard of the Lord, spreading the message of peace, love and hope.
” He was always available and accessible to his parishioners. His untimely death has left an indelible void within our diocesan family, and we share in the pain of his passing with his family, friends and all those who knew and loved him.
” Let us come together as one family in prayer for the repose of his soul. We invite all priests, religious and the faithful, to offer Holy Masses, Rosaries and Prayers for the eternal repose
of Fr. Sylvester, who gave his life in service to God and humanity.
” We wish to call on our youth and members of the Takad community to remain calm and steadfast in prayer, warning that no one should take the law into their hands. The details of the funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.” The statement added.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan could not be reach for confirmation as of the time of filing this report.
Suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked a police station in Malari, Borno State, in the early hours of Wednesday, but were repelled by security forces.
Local security sources told The ELANZA that the insurgents launched the attack at about 1:00 am but were overpowered by a combined team of police officers and soldiers.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, ASP Nahum Daso, said the assailants attempted to infiltrate the police station but were forced to retreat after a fierce gun battle.
“Yes, there was an attack on Malari Police Station, but no casualty was recorded. The officers on duty, in collaboration with the military, repelled the insurgents and prevented them from entering the town,” Daso said.
He noted that the terrorists targeted a police Armoured Personnel Carrier during the attack, damaging its tyres but failing to destroy the vehicle.
“So far, no bodies have been recovered, but we are certain there were casualties on the side of the insurgents,” he added.
Daso assured residents of the police force’s readiness to prevent future attacks, stating that Malari had previously been without civil authority but had seen improved security since the deployment of a police crack team.
Meanwhile, some residents expressed concern that the insurgents might regroup and target civilians.
“We are scared they may return. We appreciate the efforts of our security forces and urge them to strengthen security measures,” a local source told The PUNCH on condition of anonymity.
The attack comes weeks after Boko Haram militants raided Nganzai Police Division in Borno killing two police officers.
The Commissioner of Police, Yusufu Lawal, commended the officers for their resilience and extended condolences to the families of the fallen officers.
By Amina Anebi, Kaduna
Over two hundred worshippers gathered at Our Lady’s Parish Independence in Kaduna to celebrate Shrove Tuesday, marking the end of the pre-Lenten season with traditional observances, including confessions, the burning of Holy Week palms, and acts of charity.
Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, precedes Ash Wednesday and signals the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and spiritual reflection observed by many Christian denominations. The term “Shrove” comes from the old English word “shrive,” meaning absolution following confession.
The celebration in Kaduna was led by the Kaduna North Dean and Parish Priest, Very Reverend Father Anthony Okelue, who urged the faithful to embrace the spirit of repentance and charity.
“I urge you all to come closer to God as we embark on 40 days of prayer and fasting. By reflecting on our wrongdoings, we should celebrate with those who have less. That is the essence of this day—giving to the less privileged,” Father Okelue said.
Shrove Tuesday is widely observed by Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists, Western-Rite Orthodox Christians, and Roman Catholics. The day is traditionally marked by self-examination, repentance, and preparation for the solemn season of Lent.
One of the most recognisable customs associated with Shrove Tuesday is the eating of pancakes, a practice rooted in the need to use up rich ingredients such as eggs, milk, and sugar before the fasting period begins. Church bells are also rung to remind people to repent before Lent.
In many Christian traditions, churches burn the palms distributed on the previous year’s Palm Sunday to prepare the ashes used for Ash Wednesday services. Elsewhere, in countries where Shrove Tuesday is known as Mardi Gras, the day is celebrated with carnivals and feasts before the fasting period begins.
The Roman Catholic Church also marks Shrove Tuesday with the Feast of the Holy Face of Jesus, a devotion reflecting on the suffering of Christ.
Father Okelue encouraged worshippers to see Lent as an opportunity for spiritual renewal. “This is a time for reflection, prayer, and giving. Let us approach it with sincerity and a heart for others,” he said.
As the faithful in Kaduna observed this centuries-old tradition, the emphasis remained on confession, repentance, and charity—values that define the essence of Shrove Tuesday.