In a recent operation by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State, 76 individuals were apprehended in connection with a purported same-sex marriage. Subsequent investigations led to the identification of 21 of them as homosexuals, as confirmed by Commandant Muhammad Bello during a press conference held on Thursday.

The operation, which took place at Duwa Plaza along the Bauchi-Gombe Expressway, targeted an alleged same-sex wedding. The detainees underwent rigorous screening and questioning, during which the 21 individuals admitted to their homosexual orientation. Commandant Muhammad Bello emphasized that their confessions were voluntary, with no imposition of labels. He further revealed that some of the detainees expressed a desire to transition from male to female, demonstrating their intent through various platforms.

However, a surprising revelation came to light during the investigation. Among the 21 individuals, there was a minor, estimated to be around 12 or 13 years old. The NSCDC decided to remove the child from the group.

In addition to the disclosure of their sexual orientations, the detainees underwent health screenings. The Gombe State AIDS Control Agency was engaged to confirm their HIV statuses, which yielded positive results for some of the suspects. The General Hospital conducted further medical assessments, revealing cases of hepatitis B among them.

Commandant Bello underscored the importance of respecting human rights and clarified that the NSCDC had no intention of sending the suspects to prison. He emphasized their commitment to offering an alternative path toward reform and rehabilitation, with a focus on nurturing them into better individuals. Bello reiterated the organization’s dedication to upholding the rights of the suspects, in line with the law.

The establishment of a multi-sectoral committee by the Gombe State Government, known as the Reformation Committee and chaired by retired Khadi Baba Liman, is set to explore avenues for the reform and rehabilitation of the suspects. Joseph Shinga, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Gombe State chapter, expressed support for this initiative, highlighting the potential for the detainees to transform and become productive members of society.