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Nigeria: LGBTQ+ community faces extortion, violence

March 30, 2026

Homophobic gangs exploit Nigeria's harsh anti-gay legislation to target the country's LGBTQ+ community with blackmail and assault, leaving victims deeply traumatized and, in some cases, dead. Warning: Graphic content.

https://p.dw.com/p/5BC32

A surge in homophobic attacks in Nigeria is leaving LGBTQ+ people traumatized and vulnerable.

Survivors like "Gavin" describe being lured, beaten and extorted by so‑called kito gangs, who exploit anti-gay laws to kidnap and blackmail victims.

Although activist groups such as Timed Nigeria provide discreet support, many still live in fear as they fight for safety, justice and dignity. 

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