TikToker remanded by Kano Sharia court for alleged lesbian claims
By Sabiu Abdullahi
Ramlat Princess, a TikTok skit maker, has been remanded in a correctional centre by a Sharia Court in Kano State following her arrest by the Kano State Hisbah Board.
Reports show that Ms. Ramlat was apprehended after a video clip surfaced online, where she purportedly proclaimed herself as a lesbian.
Operatives of the Hisbah command arrested Ms. Ramlat on Thursday, prompted by the viral clip that sparked outrage among social media users, leading to calls for her arrest.
Upon her arraignment at the Sharia Court, Ms. Ramlat, who reportedly pleaded guilty to charges of sharing explicit material on social media and inciting public outrage, was remanded in prison custody by Judge Sani Tanimu Hausawa.
The judge scheduled a summary judgement for Monday, February 19, 2024.
Ms. Ramlat, originally from Ghana and residing in Taraba State, claimed she was visiting her elder sister in Kano when she was arrested about a month ago.
In the controversial video, Ms. Ramlat declared her lesbian identity, stating that any man wishing to marry her must consent to her marrying a woman as well.
“I am a full-fledged lesbian. Lesbianism is a beautiful act that I can’t do without,” she proclaimed in the video.
During questioning by Hisbah officials, Ms. Ramlat confirmed her involvement in the video and reiterated her stance on marriage requirements.
The arrest of Ms. Ramlat follows a similar incident involving another TikToker, Murja Kunya, who was also arrested by the Hisbah Board and remanded in prison.
It’s important to note that same-sex relationships, including homosexuality and lesbianism, are illegal in Nigeria, with offenders facing a minimum of 14 years in jail if convicted.
Ms. Ramlat’s case highlights the ongoing enforcement of laws against same-sex relationships in Nigeria and the swift actions taken by authorities in response to perceived violations.