The Nigeria Police Force has ramped up efforts to apprehend an Abuja-based man, Alika Noma Emmanuel, who has been on the run since December 2024 for his alleged involvement in a same-sex affair.
According to police spokesperson SP Idris Adamu, Alika failed to honour a police invitation and was subsequently declared wanted in January this year in connection with an alleged case of bisexuality.
A testimony from Alika’s estranged brother-in-law, Mr Liya Caleb, revealed that Alika had a long-standing history of bisexual activities, even during his marriage. However, after his in-laws turned against him, they, along with other community members, placed him under surveillance. They later caught him in the act with his partner, Okon Abang, and subjected them to public torture. The incident was then reported to the police, but Alika managed to escape and has been at large ever since.
Despite not knowing his current whereabouts, the police, with the assistance of other local security agencies, have vowed to search every corner of the country in order to bring Alika to justice. SP Idris Adamu stated, “He can run, but he cannot hide from us. The police are tirelessly working with other security agencies to ensure justice is served. We cannot close our eyes while such a dangerous man remains at large, continuing to perpetrate his criminal acts.”
It is important to note that same-sex relationships are illegal in Nigeria under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act (SSMPA), which was signed into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan on January 7, 2014. The SSMPA prohibits marriage and any form of romantic relationship between individuals of the same gender. It also forbids cohabitation between same-sex partners and bans public displays of same-sex conduct. Those found guilty of violating the law, including those who participate in gay clubs, societies, or organisations, face a prison sentence of between 10 and 14 years.
The police have urged anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of Alika Noma Emmanuel to report to any police station across the country, assuring that all tips will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
