Popular Nigerian HIV/LGBTQ advocate, Bisi Alimi, has a word of advice for gay men who are still in the closet and married to women. He gave his advise via his Instastory:
“Dear gay men, today is a good day to divorce your wife, set that woman free so you can finally live your truth and find inner peace.”
This follows a series of events where married men are called out by their partners and friends for being gay.
The first was Alex Ekubo, whose ex fiancé and partner of 5 years, Fancy Acholonu, accused of being gay. Then, Kemi Filani reported on allegations that celebrity stylist, Yomi Casual, was also gay.
Although these men have publicly denied the allegations, many still believe that they may be true.
This is what prompted Bisi Alimi to advise gay men to set their wives free and live their truth. However, it’s easier said than done. Homosexuality is illegal in Nigeria and punishable by up to 14 years imprisonment. This law is a strong deterrent to the thousands and even millions of homosexuals living in Nigeria.
Bisi Alimi’s Coming Out
When Bisi Alimi revealed his homosexuality in 2003on Funmi Iyanda’s show New Dawn with Funmi, he became the first Nigerian to come out publicly as gay. His actions led to the cancellation of the live session of the show.
He also became ostracized by his family, friends and society. Due to incessant condemnation and death threats, Bisi Alimi fled Nigeria in 2007. He resides in London and has since championed causes for the acceptance and legalization of homosexuality in Africa.
Marriage
Bisi Alimi married his husband, Anthony Davis, in November 5, 2016. They tied the knot in a privat ceremony in London. Last year, the couple celebrated their 6th wedding anniversary online via an Instagram post. Bisi Alimi wrote:
“Six years and counting… Happy anniversary to us.”
