Conservative councillor Lawal has served at Northamptonshire Unitary Council for two years. During the LGBT Pride month he posted on social media, as a response to pictures of naked men: “When did Pride become a thing to celebrate. Because of Pride Satan fell as an arch Angel. Pride is not a virtue but a Sin. Those who have Pride should Repent of their sins and return to Jesus Christ. He can save you. #PrideMonth #Pride23 #PrideParade”. 

He also added an image with a verse from Isaiah 3 verse 9, which said: “Whatever God calls ‘Sin’ is nothing to be Proud of.”

Following the backlash from LGBT supporters, Mr Lawal was forced to resign from his job in a nursing and care business after receiving an ultimatum by a different local authority. He was also removed as a trustee from an organisation that helps children get access to green spaces. Weavers Academy, a state secondary school in Wellingborough also suspended him as an academy council member. The local library said he could no longer host a planned interview session at the venue.

Mr Lawal said: “It is now almost impossible to say something biblically truthful on sexual ethics in UK society without being cancelled and having your life ruined. What I said was biblically sound and a protected expression of the Christian faith. As the only black councillor in the whole of Northamptonshire, I know what it is like to be in the minority, and I would never discriminate against anyone. I have diligently represented all my constituents; however, I must also be free to express my beliefs without fear.”