Delta State– The family of Miss Faith Marcus Eteng, a native of Ugep in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, has issued a public plea for her return, or face permanent banishment. Since early July 2023, Faith has been missing somewhere in Delta State after a confrontation with the family members over her involvement with an LGBT partner.
“Getting caught red-handed with her partner caused a bad fight, with the family sanctioning heavy punishment for the girl,” said family sources who wish to remain anonymous due to the nature of the issue.The family views her same-sex relationship as an “abomination” that carries strict traditional penalties.
Her whereabouts remained unknown after the police invited her for questioning in respect to her involvement in the act of lesbianism, until recently when an anonymous source reported seeing a picture of Faith in a European country. This development has prompted the family to make their appeal public.
“We are urging Faith Marcus Eteng to return home and face the consequences of her abominable activities,” a family representative stated. “Should she fail to do so, she will be forever banished from the family.”
Understanding the Context: Legality of Same-Sex Relationships in Nigeria
It is important to note that the practice of lesbianism, and indeed all same-sex relationships, remains criminalized in Nigeria by virtue of the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act of 2013. It carries stiff penalties of up to 14 years’ imprisonment for persons found to have entered into a same-sex marriage or civil union and 10 years for those who organize, promote, or sustain gay clubs, societies, and organizations. Public display of same-sex affection is punishable by 10 years of imprisonment as well.
