By Ijeoma Wilfred
No fewer than 76 people have been arrested by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC following a tip-off on a same-sex birthday party and a planned wedding ceremony in Gombe State.
The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State, North-East Nigeria, Mohammed Muazu, said the arrest was made on Sunday.
Speaking to journalists,a spokesperson for the Command, Buhari Saad, said, upon investigation, 21 men out of 59 males were involved in gay activities while the remaining males and 17 females were invited guests and onlookers at the birthday party.
The command said there are concerns about the ages of the individuals who were involved in the act, stating that they would ensure the individuals return to school under observation.
It however assured that it would prosecute the individuals after investigations have been concluded
In an amateur video, cited by our correspondent,the suspects were seen dancing in a hall with the suspected gay bride, Bashir, 20 preparing for the arrival of his suitor, who is at large.
It is the second time an arrest would be made on gay activities this year.
In August, Police in Delta State, arrested 67 suspects at a midnight wedding in a hotel in the state.
Gay practice is a criminal offence in Nigeria and anyone found guilty of the offence faces up to 14 years term in jail