Nigeria’s new “Jail the Gays” law has led to the arrest of dozens of gay men. Even before the law was officially signed yesterday, it was used to persecute members of the gay community. Activist Dorothy Aken’Ova said four gay men were entrapped by police and tortured until they named others. Authorities have a list of 168 allegedly gay men, 38 of whom have been arrested. President Goodluck Jonathan’s spokesman said, “This is a law that is in line with the people’s cultural and religious inclination. It is a law that is a reflection of the beliefs and orientation of Nigerian people. Nigerians are pleased with it.” The U.S. has criticized the Nigerian law, with Secretary of State John Kerry releasing a statement that said, “Beyond even prohibiting same sex marriage, this law dangerously restricts freedom of assembly… and expression for all Nigerians.”
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