Popular controversial Nollywood actor, comedian and brand influencer Uche Maduagawa, has come out as “proudly gay”.
Uche Maduagawa well known for trolling popular celebrities, pastors and politicians on social media, claiming to be Nollywood’s troublemaker. In a shared post on his Instagram, he had some words of wisdom for his fellow Nigerians.
“Appreciate others and #share only love we need to respect peoples choices not to judge them,” the actor and influencer shared. He added: “so lets practice Jesus kind of love.”
News of his coming out has received mixed reactions. One person commenting took offence saying he was going to “unfollow immediately.” Some resorted to calling him out claiming that “stupidity is in the blood.”
Uche Maduagwu coming out as gay comes one week after Bolu Okupe, the son of a homophobic Nigerian politician also came out as “Gay AF” while in a pair of rainbow shorts and holding a Pride flag aloft.
And while Uche has had to deal with some negative comments, he has also met support, with one commented saying: “Yes, respecting people chose is love.”
Another person added: “I love your courage dear.”
READ ALSO: “Why are you gay?”- Funniest interview ever
Given that the actor has a history of trolling his fellow artistes’ and public figures within the country, it is believed his coming out may be staged and a form of “clout chasing,” said Gaytimes.
Out reported that Nigeria is one of the most dangerous countries for the LGBTQ+ community, and has been ranked as the worst place for LGBTQ+ safety, due to the prospect of 14 years in prison or the death penalty for homosexuality, as well as the criminalisation of LGBTQ+ rights discussions.
Homophobia is common throughout the country, with an influential police chief by the name Dolap Badmos, in 2019 telling the LGBTQ+ community to leave the country or face prosecution.
“If you are homosexuality inclined, Nigeria is not a place for you. There is a law (Same-Sex Prohibition Act) here that criminalises homosexual clubs, associations and organisations with penalties of up to 15 years in jail,”
Source: Out.com, Gaytimes.co.uk, Afronews.de