Osun State University Students and Lecturers Arrested in Alleged LGBTQ Activity Crackdown

Osun State University Students and Lecturers Arrested in Alleged LGBTQ Activity Crackdown
Okuku, Osun State – In a significant development, the Nigeria Police have arrested 16 students and 5 lecturers from Osun State University during a raid at Ariya Global Hotel on May 5th, 2024. The event, initially organized as a welcoming party for new students, was disrupted when authorities discovered it was centered around alleged Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) activities.
The arrested lecturers include Dr. Tunde Ibironke, Dr. Godwin Ramson, Dr. Ibidun Kunle, Mr. Hassan Ibrahim, and Mr. Ibukun Abati. Additionally, 11 final-year students and 5 new students were detained. However, one lecturer and five other students remain at large. The names of the students in police custody include Seun, Ade, Seyi, Duro, Segun, Ibidun, Ronke, Shina, Durajaye, Emmanuel, and Chukemake (final-year students), while Sikiru, Ade Cash, Olarewaju, Samson, and Idowu are new students. The owner of Ariya Global Hotel, Mr. Kukoyi Adebanjo, was also among those arrested. Authorities have confirmed that the suspects will face charges in court once the investigation is complete.
The police are actively searching for two additional suspects: Mr. Akinola Oluwafemi, the manager of Ariya Global Hotel, and Mrs. Arike Kuti, the hotel’s receptionist. Both have been declared wanted for their alleged involvement in facilitating the LGBTQ activities. This incident has shocked Okuku, a town known for its strong cultural and traditional values. Local residents and community leaders have expressed their outrage and concern over the presence of LGBTQ activities, which they fear could have serious cultural implications.
Police spokesperson, DSP Emmanuel Ajayi, emphasized that the arrests are part of an ongoing effort to enforce state laws and protect the community’s cultural integrity. “We are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that those who violate it are brought to justice,” DSP Ajayi stated.
As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, awaiting further developments. The police have urged the Okuku community to cooperate in locating the remaining suspects.”