Students arrested in Nigeria for having gay sex: Report

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As many as 21 students have been arrested in Nigeria for having gay sex, local media reports.

According to a report in the Punch, it has been “reliably gathered” that the students from two state-owned universities in Asaba, Delaa state, were arrested for having gay sex for money.

Speaking to Punch was PR officer for the police, Celestina Kalu, saying: “We had it on good authority that the male students allegedly engaged in anal sex. The suspects, upon interrogation, made useful statements to the police while investigations are ongoing.”

The “investigation” also reportedly showed that “homosexuality has been on the rise” at the universities, blaming “various cult groups”.

The bizarre report also blamed the leader of a “notorious cult group” for “terrorising the community” in Obiaruku.

The Nigerian President earlier this year “flatly rejected” calls from the US to reverse his country’s anti-gay law.

Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan signed the controversial Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Bill in January 2014, meaning those who enter into a same-sex marriage or civil union face a 14-year prison sentence.

In addition, it is an offence to take part in or witness a same-sex marriage ceremony.

The strict law also forbids people from running gay clubs, societies, processions or meetings in Nigeria. The punishment for such acts is 10 years in prison.