38-Year-Old Olarewaju Sheba Declared Wanted as Police Probe Alleged Homosexual Event

The Oyo State Police Command has declared 38-year-old Olarewaju Paul Sheba wanted over allegations of involvement in homosexual activities, which remain illegal under Nigerian law.

The investigation began after police raided a residence in Odongunyan, Ikorodu, Lagos State, on December 26, 2024, where several young men were arrested, as earlier reported.

Speaking on the case, which is already before the court and expected to hold on August 28, 2025, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Adewale Osifeso, stated that one of the 15 suspects claimed Mr. Sheba co-sponsored the event but did not attend due to a family matter.

Although the arrests occurred in Lagos, the Oyo and Lagos State Police Commands are jointly handling the investigation.

One of the suspect identified as John, popularly known as Sholaybo, reportedly mentioned Mr. Sheba as a co-organizer during interrogation, prompting police to intensify efforts to locate him.

Mr. Sheba, a former hotel worker in Lagos with family ties in Ibadan, was last seen in the Elebu–Akala area. Neighbours said police officers recently visited the community to make inquiries after learning that he had moved out when he became aware of the investigation. Residents described him as quiet and peaceful, expressing shock over the allegations. However, growing tension among some youths in the area has led community leaders to call for calm.

The police have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, and to maintain peace.

They also announced a reward for anyone with credible information that could help locate Mr. Sheba, who is believed to be on the run.

CSP Osifeso emphasized that Mr. Sheba has not been charged with any crime but is wanted solely to assist with the investigation. He also warned against harassing anyone believed to be connected to the case.

Although the Lagos State Police Command is leading the inquiry, Osifeso noted that similar incidents have recently been reported more frequently in parts of southwestern Nigeria.

Authorities continue their search for Mr. Sheba and urge anyone with useful information to contact the nearest police station.