Introduction At 28 years old, Keme* has dedicated six years to full-time employment, yet the ability to envision a future remains elusive. The prospect of saving for anything beyond rent seems unattainable, with all financial resources dedicated to daily survival. Often resorting to loans to navigate the month, Keme’s struggles are reflective of a broader…
Introduction In Nigeria, the term “Kito” has sinister implications, encompassing the act of extorting queer individuals by threatening exposure and fueling a climate of homophobic violence. This not only amounts to control and intimidation but also underscores a larger societal issue. Traditionally associated with external threats such as corrupt policemen or individuals on dating apps,…
Introduction Leaving Nigeria was an imperative decision influenced by various elements, yet it was homophobia that served as its core. In my home country, being queer meant concealing my identity beneath layers of fear. Nigeria’s societal fabric wasn’t woven to embrace differences like mine so I always felt stifled. Everyday was shadowed by a looming…
In observance of Transgender Awareness Week, The Rustin Times engaged in conversations with transgender individuals, asking for insights they wished they had at the beginning of their transition and things they’ve learned on their journey. We’ve compiled some of the responses we received. “I wish someone had told me that taking testosterone is not a…
Queer Nigerians gathered in their numbers at the country’s capital, Abuja, on May 1st, 2022, protesting the amendment to the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act (“SSMPA”), seeking to criminalize crossdressing and the overall scapegoating of queer citizens that began in the early 2000s. The protest was the first mass demonstration since the October 2020 #EndSars…
From social media campaigns to legal battles to protests against police brutality, the year has been one of increased visibility, and resistance. In Nigeria, there is a very significant endeavour to keep queer people underground, to keep us out of sight and out of earshot. The social changes and contributions to the culture that we…
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