Sacrilege: Okwudo Community Declares Samuel Uzondu Anozie Wanted Over Alleged Homosexual Act
The Okwudo community in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State has declared one of its sons, Mr. Samuel Uzondu Anozie, wanted over his alleged involvement in a homosexual relationship—an act regarded as a grave sacrilege under the community’s traditional belief system.
Investigations by The Catholic Beacon revealed that Anozie, a 53-year-old father of five, was allegedly caught engaging in a homosexual act with a close male associate in June 2021.
Although the identity of the second individual was not disclosed, the incident reportedly had far-reaching consequences, including Anozie’s dismissal from his employment at Nigerian Breweries, where he was said to be a staff member at the time. Community sources disclosed that the matter became public after an indigene reportedly heard about the incident five years later and alerted community authorities.
According to Okwudo customs and traditions, anyone who becomes aware of such an act—considered an abomination—is obligated to report it, regardless of personal risk. Failure to do so, it is believed, could attract the wrath of the gods of the land, with potentially fatal consequences.
Beyond traditional sanctions, homosexuality is also criminalised under Nigerian law. The Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, 2014 prescribes a 14-year prison term for individuals found guilty of engaging in same-sex relationships. This statutory position reinforces the strong opposition to homosexual practices in many parts of the country.
Following deliberations, the Okwudo community leadership reportedly concluded that Anozie’s alleged actions had desecrated the land and could invite calamities if not ritually addressed. Consequently, the community, acting through its vigilante group, formally petitioned relevant security authorities in a letter dated December 20, 2025, notifying them of the situation and the steps being taken to locate Anozie.
Community sources further disclosed that efforts have since intensified to track down Anozie so that he can undergo a traditional cleansing ritual, described as both perilous and potentially fatal. According to those familiar with the practice, the ritual is regarded as a “50/50 affair,” with the accused facing the risk of permanent deformity or death.
In a bid to ensure compliance, the community has reportedly announced a substantial reward for anyone who provides credible information leading to Anozie’s whereabouts.
It was also gathered that Anozie’s wife and children, who remain in Nigeria, have been repeatedly summoned by community authorities to answer questions concerning his whereabouts. While they are not accused of any wrongdoing, such summons—common in customary systems—are reportedly used as a means of collective pressure and coercion.
As a result, the family is said to be living in fear, facing intimidation and heightened vulnerability, with concerns of possible harassment or reprisals arising solely from their association with him.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Anozie nor representatives of Nigerian Breweries had responded to the allegations. Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement, even as rights groups express growing concern over the safety of the individual involved and the implications of extrajudicial traditional enforcement.
The unfolding situation once again highlights the complex intersection of customary law, statutory law, and human rights within Nigeria’s plural legal system.
Culled from The Catholic Beacon Newspaper January Edition.
