A new documentary titled *Hunted: Kidnapped, blackmailed and tortured for being LGBTQ+* offers a stark depiction of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria, where discrimination, violence, and limited access to healthcare remain prevalent. The film, directed by Bel Trew, highlights the ongoing human rights abuses and the urgent need for continued international support and advocacy.
Reverend Jide Macaulay, a gay minister and founder of the House of Rainbow advocacy group, emphasized the importance of translating the documentary’s message into action. Having been forced to leave Nigeria due to threats tied to his work with vulnerable LGBTQ+ people, Macaulay noted that the stories portrayed in the film are representative of countless others living in similar circumstances. “These are not isolated incidents,” he said. “They reflect the daily experiences of many LGBTQ+ people who face discrimination, poverty, violence, and restricted healthcare access.”
The documentary features harrowing accounts from individuals such as Amed* and Moussa*, who survived "kito" attacks—a form of targeted violence involving kidnapping, blackmail, extortion, and torture against those perceived to be gay or bisexual. These attacks expose victims to severe physical and psychological abuse with little recourse to justice.
Also featured is Riri, a transgender woman and sex worker, whose experiences demonstrate the compounded challenges faced by transgender individuals, particularly in securing HIV treatment amid societal rejection and economic hardship. The documentary illustrates how stigma and discrimination exacerbate barriers to essential healthcare for marginalized groups.
Community advocates like Bethel in Niger State and Yemi and Animashaun in Lagos State are shown struggling to maintain vital grassroots programmes that provide healthcare, HIV prevention, psychosocial support, and emergency assistance for LGBTQ+ populations. However, recent reductions in international aid, notably stemming from funding cuts linked to the United States Agency for International Development under the Trump administration, have intensified pressure on these fragile support systems. This has led to the closure of safe community spaces, reductions in outreach efforts, and jeopardized access to HIV testing, treatment, and mental health services.
Experts warn these funding challenges risk undermining decades of progress made in combating HIV across Africa and globally. Without sustained investment, interruptions in care may lead to increased vulnerability and preventable deaths among affected populations.
Despite highlighting these grave concerns, *Hunted* also conveys a narrative of resilience and solidarity. The individuals portrayed continue to support one another and advocate for a future marked by dignity and safety for all LGBTQ+ people.
Reverend Macaulay called for a unified global response involving governments, donors, faith groups, corporations, and civil society organizations. He stressed that supporting LGBTQ+ individuals living with HIV transcends charity—it is a matter of human rights, public health, and social justice. He underscored the critical role that sustained funding for community-led initiatives plays in protecting lives and strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
The documentary serves as a reminder that behind every statistic is a personal story, challenging the international community to listen and respond effectively.
*Names have been changed to protect identities.*