Author name: Chukwuma Kingsley

Have you ever had that one situation that looked small at first… until it wasn’t?The one that has you saying, “I swear, I didn’t know when it got to this(I no believe say e go reach like this)?” For LGBTQIA+ individuals, this is sadly the biggest reality. It sometimes begins with A message. A threat. A screenshot of you from your production or source of livelihood.And just like that, what starts as chatting, dating, friendship, or simply existing and making ends meet becomes violence. But let’s be honest, because we need to talk about this.  As the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) draws near, we are reminded why this conversation matters. May 17 marks the World Health Organisation’s 1990 decision to remove homosexuality from its International Classification of Diseases, a major global reminder that LGBTQIA+ people are not broken, sick, or in need of “fixing.” They are humans. Period! And yet, for many LGBTQIA+ individuals in Nigeria, the daily reality can still feel like moving through the world with one eye open.That is why we are talking about the types of violations. Not to spread fear. Not to shout “danger” or have you looking over your shoulders every two minutes, but for clarity, compassion, and safer choices. “But They Never Hit Me…” This is one of the biggest reasons many survivors stay silent. After all, there are no bruises to show, so it’s not much of a big deal, so they water it down… Because society has conditioned people to believe violence only becomes “serious enough” when it leaves visible marks. So people begin to minimise their pain.  Here’s an anonymous backstory from one of our support group members; we’ll call them Blemarh here. Blemarh used to volunteer with an NGO way back, and then their job description involved refilling for their direct clients who couldn’t make it to the OSS for their refill and also providing safe sex commodities to community members who were at high risk and also interested. This warranted them to use some of these commodities as their profile pictures on some platforms they were on, and honestly, this targeted approach worked until one fateful day.Blemarh got a text from someone online who showed interest, and upon confirming and agreeing to provide the commodities at the agreed location (an open street not too far from theirs even), Blemarh discovered it was an ambush. Good thing, you might think, because they weren’t beaten, but they were stripped of their belongings, their gadgets, and some cash. PS: Blemarh proved they never mentioned anything sexual or accepted or built any sexual tension with this client. But they still experienced the said violence. Want to share your experience anonymously? Click the link here.  When people hear “violence,” or are asked what violence is, I bet the first thing they say is beating, assault, or physical attack. And yes, all of those are serious.But violence is not only what leaves a bruise. Sometimes, it is what leaves someone anxious, broke, isolated, exposed, or too scared to ask for help. For LGBTQIA+ individuals, violations may include:❗Harassment❗Blackmail❗Extortion❗Assault❗Outing someone’s identity — exposing someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity without consent❗Unlawful arrest❗Denial of services❗Threats to reputation, family, work, school, housing, or safety❗And even coercion  Yes, Coercion! when someone pressures, threatens, tricks, manipulates, or forces you into doing something you did not freely choose.And sometimes, it sounds very simple.Like: “If you don’t send money, I’ll post your picture.” “If you block me, you’ll see yourself online.” “Do you know what will happen if people find out?” “If you report me, I’ll say you came willingly.” “Send another video first, then I’ll delete the old one.” See the pattern? Now, It’s funny how the word “coercion” is rarely the first word that comes to mind when violence is mentioned but is intertwined with almost all the other forms of violence. Take Blackmail or Outing as further examples. It all starts with control. Then fear enters. Then silence follows. And that silence is what abusers often count on. But here’s the thing: understanding coercion helps us recognise red flags before things escalate.Not because we want anyone to be afraid of love, dating, friendship, or community.We talk because safer choices are easier when people have clearer information. What Should You Watch Out For? Some red flags include: Someone rushing intimacy or asking for explicit photos too quickly. Inviting you somewhere and changing the plan at the last minute. Refusing to meet in safe or public spaces first. Asking personal questions that feel like “data collection,” i.e., “What phone do you use?”  Recording you without consent. Using shame, guilt, or fear to control you. Threatening to expose you during an argument. Asking for money to “keep quiet.” Bringing unexpected people into a private meeting. Making you feel like you cannot say no. And please, this is not about blaming victims. Never. The blame falls on the person who chooses harm. But knowing the signs can help you pause, ask better questions, and choose safety where possible. “If you have never been Kitoed before, it is simply sheer privilege. It is not a matter of being too smart or being too careful.” — stakeholder Inception meeting, Ajosepo,2026 But, if something happens, what can you do? First, breathe. I know this is a difficult thing to do when you are under stress; however, do not panic so you can think clearly. If you or someone you know is facing harassment, blackmail, extortion, outing, assault, unlawful arrest, or even denial of services, here are a few steps that may help: Get to safety first if there is immediate danger.Do not suffer alone. Tell a trusted person or reach out to a trusted community organisation. Having the contacts/hotlines of organisations such as TPLPI @Instagram handle and website MINORITY WATCH @Instagram handle and website TIMED @ Instagram handle  TIERS @instagram handle and website. TRAHI @instagram handle and website.Or a paralegal first responder on speed dial has proven to help. Do not delete evidence

Have you ever been passionate about shaping the future of young leaders? We want you on this project Think Positive Live Positive Support Initiative (TPLPI) is a youth-led, community-based organization committed to advancing health, dignity, inclusion, climate justice, and socio-economic empowerment for marginalized populations. Our motto is “Changing the Narrative,” and we strive to create sustainable systemic changes that are grounded in evidence and community realities. As part of our commitment to youth development, TPLPI is implementing the “My Future, My Choice” project. This initiative is designed to support approximately 200 secondary school students across Lagos State in making informed, practical, and unbiased career decisions through structured guidance, mentorship, and parental engagement. About the Role We are looking for a passionate and experienced Career Consultant to join our team for this short-term, project-based engagement. The successful candidate will lead the design and delivery of all career guidance content, ensuring students receive relevant information on modern and emerging career paths.This role is multifaceted, requiring the consultant to facilitate interactive school-based sessions, co-design parental engagement strategies to address career-related pressures, and align with industry mentors to ensure consistent messaging across the project. You will play a critical role in helping students identify their strengths and develop actionable career plans. Project Details Duration: Approximately 2–4 months of active engagement. Location: Lagos State (School-based sessions and coordination meetings). Reporting: You will report directly to the Project Team. Remuneration: Payment will be based on agreed terms and aligned with the project budget. To Apply Interested candidates should review the full Terms of Reference (ToR) here and send their CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience to volunteer@tplpi.org with the subject line: Application for Career Consultant — Name.  TPLPI is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates.  Best of luck! 🧡💜💛💚

Are you ready to make a positive impact? Think Positive Live Positive Support Initiative (TPLPI) is a youth-led, community-based organization committed to advancing health, dignity, inclusion, and socio-economic empowerment for marginalized populations.As part of its sustainability and innovation strategy, TPLPI has established Postrybe, a creative podcast and media studio. Postrybe operates as an independent media brand while remaining fully owned by TPLPI and contributes to organisational income through content monetisation, studio rentals, partnerships, and grants. About the role The social media and Podcast Manager will lead the day-to-day management, growth, and monetisation of Postrybe, TPLPI’s podcast studio and media brand. Postrybe is an independent podcast and creative media studio owned by TPLPI, established as part of TPLPI’s organisational sustainability and earned-income strategy.This role combines digital communications, content creation, podcast production, studio management, brand building, and revenue generation, while also supporting and managing all TPLPI social media platforms to strengthen visibility, partnerships, donor engagement, and funding opportunities.The intern will play a critical role in positioning Postrybe as a global podcast brand and TPLPI as a visible, credible, and well-connected organisation across digital platforms. Knowledge, Skills and  Abilities Strong interest in media, podcasting, digital storytelling, and social impact. Demonstrated skills in social media management and content creation. Basic to intermediate skills in video editing, audio editing, and content production. Ability to engage professionally with diverse audiences, donors, and partners. Strong organisational, communication, and multitasking skills. Creativity, initiative, and a willingness to learn. Understanding of brand building, audience engagement, and digital growth strategies.🧡 Commitment to TPLPI’s values, inclusion, and community-centred work. To apply Interested candidates should read more on the job requirement here, send their CVs, cover letters, and/or portfolios to volunteer@tplpi.org with the subject line: “Application for social media and podcast manager Intern Position” Applications close on 23rd January 2026. TPLPI is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates, particularly LBQ, AGYW, AGYWLHIV, and women aged 18–29.   Goodluck 🧡💜

In the ever-busy streets of Lagos, where energy never seems to rest, Rihanna (she/her) found her voice, not as a celebrity or an influencer, but as a young transgender activist determined to change the narrative. When Rihanna talks about activism, her voice doesn’t tremble; it’s steady. She speaks with the calm of someone who has seen too much to look away. When we asked her what moment or experience first made her realise activism was something she couldn’t ignore, she said “For me, it was witnessing firsthand the persistent and violent human rights abuses faced by transgender people in Lagos, especially when those violations came from institutions that were supposed to protect us. The moment I realized activism was necessary was when I saw how silence and inaction were costing lives and dignity. I knew I couldn’t stand by anymore; I had to be part of the change.” Her activism wasn’t born out of ambition; it came from witnessing what too many people only read about, or much worse, tried to ignore.  That decision—to stop standing by, shaped everything that came after for her and her community.And as you know, activism in Lagos isn’t soft work. The weight of stigma, discrimination, and hostile laws can feel endless. And Rihanna has felt that pressure too, but she’s also found what keeps her steady and, in her words,  “One of the biggest challenges is navigating the deep-rooted stigma and legal barriers against transgender people, which sometimes feels like an uphill battle with no clear finish line. But what keeps me going is the resilience of the community and the belief that every small step forward chips away at systemic oppression. I push through by centering our stories, building solidarity, and celebrating even the smallest victories.” Each act of courage, such as showing up, speaking out, or surviving, becomes a form of resistance. However, these efforts still fail to stop the endless challenges, as Lagos can be very unforgiving to those who dare to challenge abuse or corruption. Young activists, Rihanna says, face not only threats of violence but also deep social and legal risks. Still, she’s learned to navigate the terrain with both caution and strength she mentioned that, “Young activists often face threats of violence, harassment, and social exclusion. There’s also the risk of legal repercussions because of laws criminalizing LGBTQ+ identities. I’ve learned that building strong networks of trust, documenting abuses carefully, and leveraging local and international allies are crucial strategies. Protecting our mental health and creating safe spaces to regroup also keeps us sustainable in this fight.” These strategies aren’t just about survival, they’re about building something lasting: a culture of care and accountability. But alas, every activist has a moment that reminds them why they keep going. And for Rihanna, it was helping a young trans person seek justice after a police abuse case, a “Kito” case that could have ended in silence. She said, “One memorable win was when we successfully supported a young trans person through  a ‘Kito’ case, and secured justice for them. That victory reminded me and the community that our advocacy can disrupt cycles of violence and bring real accountability. It reaffirmed that every voice raised against injustice matters.” It wasn’t just a court victory; it was proof that collective action can hold the system accountable, even slightly, and achieve fairness, and this births a vivid imagination. For Rihanna, her vision is clear and unapologetic. In her words, she describes it as  “ a Lagos where transgender people and all marginalised groups can live openly without fear, where human rights are truly respected and upheld. A Lagos fueled by the courage and persistence of young activists who refuse to accept the status quo. A city where justice, inclusion, and dignity aren’t just ideals, but lived realities.” That dream isn’t naïve. It’s necessary, and it’s achievable. Even as we speak, it’s being built, one act of bravery at a time. Rihanna’s story reminds us that change often begins with refusal, the refusal to stay silent, the refusal oR look away.