LGBTQ members in Toronto have come out in their numbers to show solidarity, demonstrating the power of unity through their massive turnout.
Gathered here today, they are chanting and singing in oneness for LGBTQ2+ members in Canada and across the world. This event is unprecedented; the energy is phenomenal and mind-blowing. The Province of Toronto is abuzz, witnessing the ongoing struggle for equality faced by LGBTQ members worldwide. The protesters are demanding equality, fairness, and protection of LGBTQ rights.
In an interview with some of the protesters, Ogechi Kenna Nwokoloh, a Nigerian resident in Toronto, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to legalize the Same Sex Act. She shared that discovering her sexual identity as bisexual has been the best thing that ever happened to her. She pleads with President Tinubu to pass the Same Sex Act for Nigeria and Nigerians in general.
In an interview, Ms. Adaobi Ifeobu stated that she has had to hide her sexuality for years, fearing the consequences if found.
Ms. Adaobi is appealing to the Nigerian Federal Government to cease discrimination against LGBTQ members immediately and to allow for equality, which she considers to be true equity.
Another Nigerian protester, Chinweh Ihejiikah, has a message for all LGBTQ2+ members across the continent. She emphasized that there is no retreat, no surrender, urging all LGBTQ2+ individuals to continue protesting until the world ceases to discriminate against them and begins to recognize, respect, and protect their rights like those of other genders.
Meanwhile, Ritah Ebere Nwaokolo, another Nigerian protester, called on the Nigerian Federal Government to repeal the Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act (SSMPA) and to pass laws legalizing homosexuality. She asserts that we are in the 21st century, and everyone is entitled to choose their sexuality.
In an interview, Yunus Lekan Qhudus said that like many homosexuals in Nigeria and elsewhere, he is exhausted from living in self-denial about his sexual orientation.
He urged the Nigerian Federal Government to swiftly enact laws to abolish criminalization of same-sex relationships.
He recalled that since Nigeria passed the Law in 2024 prohibiting any form of homosexuality, citing moral and cultural reasons, many of his supporters were greatly disappointed by this law and reported it to the authorities.
Unfortunately, since the law’s passage, no member of his family has shown signs of reconsideration or support.
While LGBTQ rights are celebrated in Canada, many challenges persist elsewhere. In Nigeria and other developing countries, LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face criminalization, imprisonment, and discrimination.