Queer and Christian in Nigeria: An LGBTQ+ Activist's Story of Contradiction and Courage | Bisi Aimi | Voice #85

"The first exorcism was terrifying. It didn't cure anything; it just deepened my despair."

 

How do you navigate life when your very identity is deemed illegal? This episode takes you through the harrowing yet inspiring journey of LGBTQ+ activist Bisi Alimi. Bisi recounts the intense challenges of trying to reconcile his Christian faith with his sexuality growing up in Nigeria where where LGBTQ+ rights are severely restricted.

 

Episode Topics:

- Exorcisms and Mental Health: Discussing the traumatic experiences of undergoing exorcisms as a misguided attempt to 'cure' homosexuality.

- Historic Media Moments: Recounting the pivotal moment of being the first person to openly come out as gay on Nigerian television, highlighting the fallout and impact it had on his life.

- Survival and Resilience: A frank discussion on multiple suicide attempts spurred by societal rejection and internal conflict, underscoring the mental health struggles within the LGBTQ+ community.

About Bisi:
Bisi Alimi is a British-Nigerian gay rights activist, public speaker, blog writer and HIV/LGBT advocate who gained international attention when he became the first Nigerian to come out on television.

 

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Bisi Alimi is a British-Nigerian gay rights activist, public speaker, blog writer and HIV/LGBT advocate who gained international attention when he became the first Nigerian to come out on television.

 

Timestamps and Topics:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:14) LGBTQ+ Laws in Africa

(02:24) LGBTQ+ Rights in Nigeria

(03:41) Personal Identity Exploration

(05:04) Name Change and Identity

(07:14) Family Dynamics and Sexuality

(10:48) Reconciliation with Father

(14:32) Childhood Influences and Struggles

(19:21) Conflict with Christianity and Sexuality

(24:09) Exorcism, and Su*cide attempts

(32:38) Turning Point in Advocacy

(37:33) Public Outing and Consequences

(42:03) Advocacy and Personal Impact

(47:45) Experiencing Racism in the UK

(52:08) Understanding Black Identity

(57:36) Bisi Alimi Foundation Goals

(1:02:04) Message to Younger Self

(1:03:21) Conclusion