Man brutalised in series of mob attacks over LGBT rights stance

A Nigerian man has suffered multiple violent assaults in Lagos after being repeatedly targeted for his public support of the rights of LGBT individuals.

The victim, identified as Mr. Kene Dickson Oguine, has been left in isolation, fearing for his life, and unable to work or travel due to the threats and brutality he has faced.

Mr. Oguine, who returned to Nigeria on 5 June 2025, initially moved in with a relative in Lagos, avoiding his family home in eastern Nigeria where he had already been labelled an outcast for his views.

His position, which calls for dignity and protection for LGBT persons, is widely rejected by both minority Christian and majority Muslim communities across the country.

The first attack occurred on 7 June during an evening walk when he was approached and identified by locals. He was physically assaulted by two men using sticks and fled to his relative’s home.

He was later taken to a nearby private hospital for treatment.

Days later, on 11 June, he was again targeted while on his way to attend a church service. In a crowded marketplace, a tout assaulted him, and the attack drew attention until a police patrol intervened.

He was transported to the general hospital for medical care.

The violence escalated last month when he was travelling from Ojota Bus Stop to a cinema in the city centre.

A man in khaki clothing identified him and rallied others to join in assaulting him. Surrounded by a group, he was pushed, slapped, and beaten until an elderly bystander attempted to stop the mob. Instead, the attackers dragged him to a nearby police station, accusing him of crimes under laws prescribing up to 14 years’ imprisonment.

After the mob dispersed, police officers took him to the general hospital for treatment.

The series of attacks has left him in hiding, unable to seek employment or move freely within the country. He has ruled out relocating to the East or North, fearing harsher treatment in those regions.