In a harrowing tale of survival, Collins Iwesike, a 40-year-old man from Delta State, has vanished after fleeing relentless persecution under Nigeria’s harsh anti-LGBTQ+ laws. His story reflects the grim reality faced by many in a country where same-sex relationships are criminalised with penalties of up to 14 years in prison.
Born into a society where homosexuality is condemned by both cultural and religious norms, Collins lived most of his life in secrecy. His journey of self-discovery began in his teenage years when he developed a relationship with his cousin—an experience that shaped his identity but also exposed him to immense risk. To conform to societal expectations, Collins married and had four children, suppressing his true self to avoid persecution.
However, his past caught up with him when he rekindled a friendship with Iroro, a former lover who was under surveillance by Nigeria’s anti-homosexual task force. On February 13, 2025, Collins was ambushed in a hotel room by armed officers, subjected to violence, blackmail, and ransom demands running into millions. They threatened to expose him or incite mob justice if he failed to comply. Fearing for his life, he went into hiding, moving from city to city while being hunted and extorted.
With nowhere left to turn, Collins made the agonizing decision to leave Nigeria, supported by his wife, who stood by him despite the shocking revelation of his sexuality. Now, his whereabouts remain unknown. Some say he has escaped to safety; others fear he is missing. His story raises urgent questions about the dangers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria and the price of simply being true to oneself.
