Nigerian transgender TikToker found dead

Nigerian transgender TikToker found dead

Body of Popular Transgender Woman Found in Abuja

The Nigerian police are investigating the death of a well-known transgender TikToker, who was widely recognized online as “Abuja Area Mama.” The 33-year-old woman’s bruised and battered body was discovered on Thursday along a highway in Abuja, the capital city, according to local media reports.

Social Media Presence and Personal Struggles

Abuja Area Mama, who sometimes referred to herself as Ifeanyi, had a significant following on social media platforms. She frequently posted about her experiences as a transgender woman and her life as a sex worker. Despite her popularity, she never disclosed her full name online.

Living in a society that often targets individuals who deviate from conservative norms, Abuja Area Mama had shared in the past her fears for her safety. Last year, she recounted an attack and expressed concerns for her life.

Nigeria’s Hostile Environment for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Nigeria, a country with strict conservative values, criminalizes same-sex relationships, leading many LGBTQ+ individuals to live in fear. LGBTQ+ Nigerians, particularly those visible on social media, often face homophobic abuse and discrimination. This environment has made life precarious for many, including Abuja Area Mama, who openly identified as a transgender woman.

In her final Instagram post on Wednesday, she mentioned preparing to meet her boyfriend. Just hours later, her body was found along the Katampe-Mabushi expressway in the Banex, Wuse II area of Abuja. The circumstances suggest a possible murder.

Ongoing Investigation by Abuja Police

Police authorities responded swiftly, with a team of detectives visiting the crime scene on Thursday morning. According to a police statement, preliminary investigations indicated that the deceased was a man dressed in female clothing and carried no identification. Abuja police chief Benneth Igweh has ordered a thorough and discreet investigation into the incident.

This tragic event follows a previous attack last September, where Abuja Area Mama was stabbed by an unknown assailant under unclear circumstances. On her TikTok profile, she described herself as “the number one Abuja cross-dresser and queen of the street,” using her platform to reflect on her life and educate her followers.

Public Reaction and Legal Context

News of her death has led to widespread grief and outrage on social media. Despite Nigerian laws that guarantee freedom from discrimination and the right to private and family life, mass arrests and detention of LGBTQ+ individuals remain common, particularly in the northern regions.

Local journalist Martins Ifijeh condemned the violence, stating, “Taking laws into your hand because you don’t like another person’s sexual orientation is the worst form of inhumanity.” The investigation continues as the public demands justice for Abuja Area Mama.