20 minutes ago
By Todah Opeyemi, BBC News, Lagos
Demola Mako/The Fola Francis Ball
The celebratory ball had to maintain secrecy due to its nature. In Nigeria, where same-sex relationships and public displays of affection are illegal, embracing queer culture is risky. Observing Pride month here is an act of defiance.
The Fola Francis Ball, named after a transgender woman who passed away last year, kept its venue details secret until just hours before opening. Despite this, over 500 people attended in a district near Lagos’s waterfront.
The atmosphere around the venue was lively, with abandoned car parts and warehouses known for rave parties. Inside, the queer community of Lagos found solace and safety, shielded from the outside world.
Attendees were dressed in neo-gothic attire, showcasing androgyny and eccentricity. The ball was inspired by an event attended by the organizers, Ayo Lawanson and Uyaiedu Ikpe-Etim, who wanted to honor Fola Francis this year.
Many attendees saw the ball as a tribute to Fola Francis, who had a significant impact on the queer community in Nigeria. For some, her existence provided a sense of freedom and authenticity.
The ball featured competitions in various categories, celebrating self-expression and diversity in the face of fear. Despite the challenges posed by the Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act, the event aimed to provide a space for celebration and acceptance. También me enoja porque no hay ninguna razón por la que debamos vivir con miedo cuando simplemente podemos expresarnos, ser nosotros mismos, y simplemente vivir y ser felices.