Tragedy has struck the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria as Hilary, a young gay man, sadly passed away following a horrifying homophobic attack in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. His death has sent shockwaves across social media, sparking grief, outrage, and renewed calls for justice and protection of queer individuals in the country.
The heartbreaking news was first shared by Jide Macaulay, a prominent LGBTQ+ rights activist and founder of the House of Rainbow, through an emotional Instagram post that shed light on the cruel circumstances surrounding Hilary’s final moments.
How the tragic incident unfolded
According to Jide Macaulay’s detailed post, Hilary was deceived and lured into a meeting under false pretenses by individuals posing as friends or potential acquaintances. Upon arrival, he was ambushed, mercilessly beaten, and thrown off a two-storey building. The fall caused severe spinal cord injuries that ultimately claimed his life despite desperate attempts to save him.
Reports suggest that the attack was part of a disturbing pattern of “kito” setups — a slang term within Nigeria’s LGBTQ+ community referring to entrapment schemes used to blackmail, assault, or expose queer individuals. Sadly, Hilary’s case marks the second kito-related death in Nigeria within just two weeks, underscoring the alarming rise in hate-motivated violence.
Tributes and reactions flood social media
Following the announcement of Hilary’s death, tributes have poured in from across Nigeria and the diaspora. Activists, allies, and friends have taken to various platforms to mourn the loss of a life cut short by hate and ignorance. Many described Hilary as a kind, vibrant young man who deserved love and acceptance, not violence and discrimination.
In his heartfelt message, Jide Macaulay expressed deep sorrow over Hilary’s death, writing:
“Our hearts are heavy once again. Another queer life has been taken from us far too soon. Hilary was deceived, lured into a meeting under false pretense, and subjected to a brutal homophobic attack in Port Harcourt. He was beaten and thrown from a two-storey building. Hilary fought for his life, but yesterday, he succumbed to his spinal cord injuries and the violent cruelty inflicted upon him.”
He added that the continuous loss of innocent lives due to hatred reflects society’s deep failure to protect its citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation or identity. The post concluded with a call for Nigerians to rise above prejudice and work toward ending violence against marginalized communities.
Public outrage and demand for justice
Hilary’s tragic death has reignited debates about safety, acceptance, and the need for stronger human rights protection for LGBTQ+ people in Nigeria. Many online users have condemned the recurring acts of violence, urging authorities to investigate the case thoroughly and bring those responsible to justice.
Activists have also called on the government to take a firmer stance against homophobic crimes and repeal laws that indirectly fuel discrimination and hate crimes. International rights groups are expected to weigh in as pressure mounts on local authorities to ensure justice for Hilary and others who have fallen victim to similar attacks.
Hilary’s story is a painful reminder of the risks many face simply for being who they are. His passing leaves behind not only grief but also a strong message about the urgent need for compassion, reform, and protection for all Nigerians, regardless of sexual orientation.
Read post and reactions below…
