A Lieutenant in the Nigerian Army has been arrested for allegedly engaging in homosexual acts and molesting junior colleagues in Bama, Borno State.
Military sources confirmed the arrest of the officer, identified simply as Lieutenant Abubakar, by the military police under the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army. He was reportedly caught in the act last month.
According to sources, several junior soldiers accused the Lieutenant of molestation and non-consensual same-sex acts, alleging that the behavior had persisted for a long time.
“A serving officer was last month arrested while engaging in forceful homosexual acts with his junior colleagues in Bama, Borno State. He was arrested with clear evidence and is under investigation by the 7th Division military police,” a source revealed.
Another source, a senior officer, expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of similar incidents within the military.
“Homosexuality is becoming rampant among officers here in the army. Instead of addressing and shaming the culprits, the army authorities often cover up these bad acts,” the source alleged.
Homosexual acts are criminalized in Nigeria under the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2013, signed into law by former President Goodluck Jonathan.
The law prescribes a maximum sentence of 14 years’ imprisonment for anyone found guilty of engaging in same-sex relationships under Nigeria’s secular criminal code.
In northern states, including Borno, where Shari’a law is applied, the penalties are even more severe.
Shari’a law, which applies to Muslims and individuals who consent to its jurisdiction, prescribes death by stoning as the maximum punishment for homosexuality.
The Nigerian Army has yet to issue an official statement on the arrest or ongoing investigation.
The case highlights the need for a broader conversation about discipline and professionalism in the Nigerian Armed Forces as concerns about misconduct among personnel continue to rise.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
