TheCable

Elvert Ayambem, speaker of the Cross River assembly, has called for the arrest and prosecution of organisers of an alleged gay party in Calabar, the state’s capital.

In a statement on Tuesday by Matthew Okache, chief press secretary, the speaker’s call was in reaction to reports of a gay party held on June 30 at a hotel in the Ekorinim area of Calabar.

The speaker, while insisting that “gayism is a crime in Cross River state”,  claimed that minors were also present at the party and declared the gathering unlawful.

Ayambem called on hospitality operators in the state to ensure that no hotel or club entertains persons below the age of 18 unless a parent or guardian accompanies them.

He warned anyone or organisation in connection with the act to desist or risk prosecution by the authorities.

“It will be recalled that former President Goodluck Jonathan on Jan. 7, 2014, signed the same-sex marriage prohibition bill into law,” the statement reads.

“The law imposes a 14-year jail term on anyone who enters into a same-sex marriage contract or civil union.

“Similarly, it imposes a 10-year sentence on individuals or groups, including religious leaders who witness, abet or aid the solemnisation of same-sex marriage or union.

“Also, a 10-year prison sentence is imposed on those who directly or indirectly make a public show of same-sex amorous relationship or supporters of such groups.”