A 48-year-old indigene of Anambra state, Onyebuchi Attansey, Wednesday, raised concerns over his safety, alleging that he has faced threats from members of his community following the discovery of his sexual identity.
In an interview with newsmen, Attansey recounted how his experience with homosexuality began. He said his best friend introduced him to the relationship and his parents viewed it as an abomination, leading to several confrontations and instances of physical abuse by his father.
Attansey said his situation became complicated following an incident in which his then-partner, “Tony,” and some friends were arrested by police officers while returning from a party, allegedly on suspicion of being fraudsters.
He alleged that after the police searched their phones for incriminating evidence, they discovered explicit images of him and his partner.
Attansey stated that the discovery led to Tony’s continued detention and eventually contributed to his sexual orientation becoming known publicly.
He claimed that the police investigation and subsequent invitation further exposed his sexual identity, leaving him vulnerable to hostility from members of his community and society at large.
Attansey said he now fears apprehension and possible conviction because of his sexual orientation. He is therefore appealing for protection and assistance, saying he wants to live a normal life like every other Nigerian.
