A former Councillor and community leader, Hon. Hector Daniel Onugha, has been declared wanted by police following an alleged same-sex encounter that triggered violent backlash in Eti Ndoki, Ukwa-East Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred on Christmas Day (December 25, 2023) when Onugha was reportedly caught engaging in a same-sex act with another man, identified as Henry Godwin, in his residence. The act, widely condemned by residents as a “sacrilege,” drew immediate attention and fury from the local community.
Youths and elders of the village allegedly stormed Onugha’s house, dragged him to the community square, and subjected him to a severe beating that left him unconscious. Believing he was dead, villagers alerted the police. However, before officers could arrive, Onugha reportedly regained consciousness and fled into the nearby bush, despite his injuries.
A search party was launched, but efforts to locate him before nightfall were unsuccessful. In a further escalation, angry youths reportedly set Onugha’s house ablaze after his wife and children fled.
The police have since declared Onugha wanted under Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, which criminalizes same-sex relationships as well as Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer (LGBTQ).
Community sources told National Ambassador that Onugha’s alleged partner, Henry Godwin, who initially escaped, was later apprehended by villagers and reportedly killed in retaliation.
The incident has shocked residents, particularly due to Onugha’s former role as an elected official and community figure. Local leaders have expressed outrage over what they described as a betrayal of cultural and moral values.
Police authorities have issued an official statement confirming the alleged assault and death.
They called on the community to maintain peace and order, assuring that investigations are ongoing.
