A Nigerian man identified as Aigbe Emmanuel Destiny has reportedly gone into hiding after allegedly escaping from a forced marriage arranged by his politically influential family, he is being wanted by the police over his sexual orientation.
Destiny, believed to be from a prominent political family, was allegedly compelled to marry the daughter of another influential household as part of a broader alliance between both families.
According to information gathered, traditional marriage rites were said to have been performed on December 21, 2023, after which the woman was moved into the family residence. Family sources alleged that pressure mounted on Destiny to consummate the marriage in order to strengthen ties between both households.
It was further gathered that tensions developed within the family after he reportedly resisted attempts to fully embrace the union because of his sexual orientation as a gay man. Sources claimed that he was allegedly confined and repeatedly pressured to engage in sexual relations with the woman.
Individuals familiar with the situation alleged that Destiny was subjected to intimidation, restriction of movement, and other forms of mistreatment after concerns arose over his reluctance to continue with the arrangement.
The family was also said to have insisted that the marriage produce a child quickly to solidify the relationship between the two politically connected families.
Sources disclosed that the situation came to a head after some of Destiny’s former university associates reportedly became worried over his sudden disappearance from public contact. His younger brother was said to have informed them about the alleged confinement and conditions he was facing at home.
The associates reportedly stormed the family compound late at night and assisted him in escaping from the residence. His mother and the woman involved in the marriage arrangement were said to be absent at the time of the incident.
This matter has, however, been reported to the Nigerian Police, who have now declared Destiny wanted.
Destiny has since reportedly gone into hiding, fearing possible persecution linked to his sexual orientation and the influence allegedly wielded by members of his family.
