A Nigerian author and brand expert has taken to Facebook to
publicly come out as gay.
Kenny Brandmuse, who was married for six years, had also recently
disclosed that he is HIV positive.
In two separate posts, Brandmuse addressed both his sexuality and
his HIV status saying he would continue to write for those who are
misunderstood and discriminated against.
‘One day, very soon, it will no longer be news that some of us are
gay because the next generation will regard all mankind with dignity,
irrespective of sexuality,' he said.
‘One day, very very soon, HIV and other such diseases will no
longer be a thing to be ashamed of as those affected will live a much healthier
life due to scientific breakthroughs and zero stigmatization.’
He added it was important for parents in Nigeria to affirm their
children’s sexuality early on so they would not get into ‘high sexual risk’
situations.
‘When we live in culture of silence, we push people to the down
low.'
'When people engage in sexual activities in the down low, they are
highly at risk for HIV and other STIs.
‘Speaking about my journey as a black gay man, I knew I got engaged
in high sexual risks while in college because I was running away from myself.'
He also thanked his followers for their support and their kind
words urging more Nigerians to recognize diversity.
‘Affirm people whose sexual orientation differs from yours as long
as they are not coercing anyone into it- stop comparing gay folks to pedophiles
and people sleeping with animals. That's not a consensual love between two
people. It happens with heterosexuals too.’
Surprisingly, a large majority of his fans were supportive.
'Kenny please continue to speak out. Homosexuality cannot be
promoted, its not an infectious disease. We just want to stop hiding,' one
said.
And another added: 'My brother, my love, my soul, I stand with you
now and forever. I have wept, laughed and I celebrate your bravery and say
thank you.'
But they weren't all so positive, with some alleging that Brandmuse
had been 'turned' gay.
You are gay, good for you but keep it to yourself but I will advice
you respect the law of nature and the laws of the land bcause this miserable
lifestyle of yours is against an offense in nigeria. Just get ready to face the
music when the DJ starts playing it or start planning your relocation.
'I hate it when gays try to force straights to be gay,' one said.
'If u wanna be gay, its ur life its between u and ur maker. Dnt drag others
into it.'
Homosexuality is illegal in Nigeria and can result in a 14-year
prison sentence. Public displays of affection by gay men and lesbians are also
criminalized.
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