A widow from Nkpor in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Pastor Mrs Ukamaka Obi, has publicly announced that she has disowned her 27-year-old daughter, Miss Obi Splendour Chinenye, over alleged involvement in a same-sex relationship.
Mrs Obi made the disclosure on August 28, 2024, during a press interaction with The Catholic Beacon at her residence in Asaba, Delta State. She said the decision was taken on religious and cultural grounds, which she described as strongly opposed to homosexuality.
“I have disowned Obi Splendour Chinenye, and henceforth she is no longer my daughter,” she said. “My decision is based on her alleged involvement in lesbianism, which goes against my Christian faith and the customs of Nkpor. I do not want my name or family reputation tarnished.”
She further claimed that her daughter’s refusal to marry, including declining a suitor she recommended, raised suspicions within the family. According to her, the matter came to light after another child allegedly discovered social media content suggesting same-sex involvement. She said her daughter later admitted this when confronted.
Describing homosexuality as a taboo in her community and a sin under her religious beliefs, Mrs Obi said she reported the matter to security authorities and community leaders, insisting that her actions were driven by moral and spiritual concerns.
“My Christian belief does not permit me to keep silent,” she said. “I believe I am acting in her best interest.”
Efforts to reach Miss Obi Splendour Chinenye for comment were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
Legal and human-rights analysts note that while Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act criminalises same-sex marriage and the public display of same-sex relationships, it does not criminalise sexual orientation itself. Rights groups have repeatedly warned against public shaming, mob action, or extra-judicial measures, stressing the need for due process and respect for human dignity.
The incident has continued to spark public debate, highlighting the ongoing tension in Nigerian society between religious and cultural beliefs on one hand, and human-rights concerns on the other.
Culled from Catholic Beacon, September, 2024 edition
