'Let the gay breathe' - British-Nigerian pastor reacts to the arrest of suspects at a same-sex wedding

British-Nigerian pastor, Jide Macaulay, has reacted to the arrest of more than 100 suspected gay men at a wedding ceremony in Delta state.

The suspects were arrested during a wedding ceremony of a gay couple held at a hotel in Warri.

Reacting to the arrest via his official Instagram page, the Chaplain at St. Peter's House, the chaplaincy of Manchester's Universities, said the LGBTQ community is not a threat to the nation.

"Recent reports from Nigeria reveal the arrest of around 100 individuals at a supposedly same-sex wedding event. This incident highlights the restrictions on gatherings and social interactions for queer individuals in Nigeria, prompting concerns about the increasing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community," parts of his statement read.

Read his full statement below:

The Same-sex Marriage Prohibition Act bans marriage, not socialization

Rather than addressing genuine security concerns, these actions seem to exacerbate the difficulties experienced by LGBTQ+ people.

It's important to recognize that the LGBTQ+ community is not a threat to the nation; their desire is simply to live without interference.

Redirecting law enforcement resources toward addressing insurgent activities and preventing hate crimes could be a more effective use of Nigeria's police forces.

The prevailing perception of corruption and brutality within the Nigerian police raises concerns about their understanding and application of the law.

It's crucial to note that the existing anti-gay legislation primarily aims to prosecute same-sex relationships and intimate encounters, rather than social interactions.

Allowing LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria to live openly and peacefully should be a priority.

The anguish expressed by the LGBTQ+ community resonates deeply, as they navigate an environment marked by hostility and anxiety.

In this challenging time, I express my solidarity with LGBTQ+ Nigerians, both within the country and beyond its borders.