The Nigerian social media space has been chaotic ever since the well-known gossip blog disclosed names of individuals allegedly involved in homosexuality in Nigeria. Tongues have been wagging non-stop because of the names on that list - all celebrities and influencers. I am not suprised that It makes for a sensational hot topic.
This incident follows the distasteful comments meted to the clip of the son of a popular filmmaker who shared what his normal day would look like as a university student somewhere in Nigeria; his harmless social media post has met with strong public disapproval as his gesticulation, body movement even the use of lip gloss perceived as feminine behavior, leading to assumptions about his sexual orientation.
In Nigeria, individuals convicted of engaging in homosexuality are subject to a 14-year prison term. The terrain is so perilous that individuals openly disavow any accusations of being linked to homosexuality. Consequently, there are speculations about numerous individuals in Nigeria who keep their "uncommon" sexual orientation a secret for fear of being exposed, leading to any news or gossip about it becoming a viral social media sensation.
Nigeria has a high level of homophobia, as well as widespread misconceptions about sexual orientation. There are established cultural beliefs about "these things" that people dare not openly question and families have been torn about to learn that their religious indoctrination may have failed when a child "comes out". Publicly shaming individuals accused of being "gay" is common, reflecting the religious and social influence in society. A major reason why any LGBTQ rumors targeting celebrities and influencers for the purpose of "exposing" them tend to spread rapidly. Individuals latch onto the main idea, even those that cannot be confirmed 100%.
It is puzzling why Nigerians do not exhibit the same level of outrage towards molestation and abuse occurring within religious and cultural institutions. There was a lack of uproar when Busola Dakolo spoke out about her alleged abuse by a well-known Pentecostal pastor. Some individuals seem more inclined to defend their favorite figures rather than consider differing opinions. Many traditional Nigerian families are infamous for shielding abusers rather than standing by the victims, and some people focus their efforts on spreading animosity toward what they view as the LGBTQ agenda.
Such uninformed homophobia rooted in religious beliefs and culture in Nigeria poses a threat to innocent individuals, particularly males. In this society, males are brought up to believe that displaying emotions is a sign of weakness, and engaging in positive interactions with other men such as giving gifts, hugs, and holding hands is considered unusual and outside the norm of traditional masculinity, often associated with being labeled as exhibiting gay behavior.
There are still unwarranted assumptions being made about single or long-term bachelors, men who opt for celibacy, or men who prefer to keep their relationships private even when they are in relationships with women. It's similar to the way people tend to make negative judgments about strangers sporting dreadlocks and tattoos or women wearing leg chains, despite knowing nothing about them.
I wonder why Nigerians consider this a priority, given that many of the beliefs are uninformed and only serve to fuel hatred, causing harm rather than good. The lack of understanding is evident in the rumors spread on blogs and social media discussions. Ultimately, any attempts to "save" those who are part of the LGBTQ community backfire, leading to increased animosity between the parties involved.
At least, more people need to be more invested and intentional in learning about LGBTQ rather than spreading hate, fear and homophobia because chances are that someone close to you is in the closet and your "self-righteousness" of thinking things like that can never come near you will be your greatest undoing. At least, understand what it is from a balanced, well-researched, and more nuanced perspective, so you are better prepared to deal with related situations because, from the conversations I have seen and heard, many tend to approach LGBTQ topics solely from a narrow religious viewpoint, unwilling to consider alternative perspectives. The lack of critical thinking in society is evident from these conversations.
When it's not like there is a scandal being exposed like some Diddy or Mike Jefferies exposé with a full investigation by law enforcement happening. What is the suprise? Is it the feeling of self-righteousness it provides them or the typical "thank goodness it's not happening to me" attitude... or should this be looked into further instead of just being seen as sensational gossip?
Because in a society where a bag of rice is crossing 100k and a litre of fuel is 1k plus a loaf of bread and mudu of garri is so expensive and a single cob of corn goes for as high as 200 Naira.... you would be wondering how people are so invested in the private sexual lives of other adults. Indeed, Nigerians often get distracted and focus on unimportant matters instead of more pressing issues. Knowing about the alleged homosexuality of celebrities, what purpose does this information serve at this time? How does it benefit anyone other than the blog profiting from the increased engagement and revenue?