By Our Reporter
A man, Stanley Oguemechulem, while Hails from Umuduru Ekwe in Isu local government area of Imo State Nigeria, has been declared wanted by Imo state police command for confessing being a homosexual.
Authorities have confirmed that Oguemechulem’s whereabouts remain unknown, leading to mounting concerns from his family, who fear for his safety.
According to the Imo Police Command, efforts are underway to locate Oguemechulem, but so far, there has been no sign of him. His family has expressed deep worry over his well-being, urging the public and authorities not to persecute him for his sexual orientation.
A spokesperson for the family stated, ” We have not seen any trace of him since January 2024. We are asking for compassion and understanding. Stanley has the right to live freely without fear, and we plead that he be treated with dignity and respect.”
It was gathered that Stanley’s ordeal began in 2023 shortly after he married his wife, Amaka from Enugu State.
Amaka was said to have grown suspicious of his sexual status until she caught him in the act with his partner.. However, Stanley pleaded with her not to disclose this to the public. But unable to bear the shame and not satisfied with coping with Stanley anymore, she packed to her parents house in Enugu, where she bucked under pressure and revealed the truth to her parents.
It was gathered that Stanley’s inlaws now reported the matter to the police, leading to his being declared wanted.
Fearing threat on his life and possible imprisonment, Stanley was said to have ran and has remained incommunicado since.
This has now raised some concerns among LGBTQ+ rights groups who have warned against possible discrimination and threat to life.
As this story unfolds, the community remains divided, with many voicing support for Oguemechulem’s right to live openly, while others remain cautious about the nature of the charges against him. The Anambra Police Command has yet to provide further details.
The family has called on the authorities to ensure Oguemechulem’s safety and ensure that no harm comes to him, adding that they are committed to working with law enforcement to resolve the situation peacefully.