65 places to avoid, 11 steps to take if you are gay in Nigeria

Here’s a quick guide to avoiding the blackmail, extortion and other violent crimes that so often target LGBT people  in Nigeria.

These crimes are perpetrated almost every day by homophobic criminals who often go unpunished because there is no protection for homosexual persons in the country, coupled with the fact homosexuality is criminalized in Nigeria.

Here are 11 tips for defending yourself against these criminals, starting with limiting your exposure online.

In addition, here is a list of 65 places in Nigeria where violence and extortion have been reported multiple times against LGBT persons. The list was compiled with assistance from activists who have been combating  against anti-LGBT blackmail in Nigeria. Gay persons are strongly advised to take caution when meeting people, especially strangers, in these areas:

Lagos: Igando, Mile 2, Trade fair, Okokomaiko, Ojo, Festac, Ikotun, Okota, Lekki (Second/Maruwa roundabout)

Abuja: Gishiri, Mpape, Maraba, Lugbe

Cross Rivers: Mbukpa Area, 8miles Area, Unical Male Hostel, Eastern Highway

Oyo: Oje, Beere, Oke-Itunu, Komu, Apete, Orita, Challenge, Molete, Ogbomosho, Alakia, Sango

Abia: Ngwa Road, PH Road, Ogborhill, Ariaria, Ukaegbu, MCC, Aba North, Aba South, Osisoma, Umuojima, Ukapkiri, Omuma, Osusu

Anambra: Awada, Woiliwo, Fegge, Okpoko, Nsugbe

Imo: IMSU Junction, Bishop Court, Cherubim Junction, Futo, Control

Enugu: Emene, Maryland, Garikki, Topland, Abakpa, Asata, Onuato, UNN (Nsukka), Agbani, Mkpokiti

Delta: Ibusa, koka Junction, Warri