LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigerian media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, has ignited widespread conversation online after claiming that Lagos is home to numerous married men who are secretly gay.
He suggested that many of these individuals enter heterosexual marriages to shield themselves from societal stereotypes and possible prosecution under laws against same-sex relationships.
The comment went viral during his appearance on The Clarity Zone Podcast, hosted by Nedu Wazobia, where he addressed speculation surrounding his own sexuality. Jideonwo’s remarks came in response to a direct question from his host who asked whether the media entrepreneur was gay following recent online discussions about his personal life.
The 40-year-old media personality referenced reactions to a previous appearance on TVC News Breakfast in January 2026 that sparked speculation about his sexuality.
“When the TVC interview came out, people were saying maybe I’m gay. I’m like Lagos is full of married gay people,” he stated.
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“Abi them say people are advertising rituals on TikTok. Ritual is advertised on TikTok. Native medicine, I have seen three people advertising, and people are engaging. One of the women was live from her shrine. And people were like, Mama, how can I reach you? with a phone number,” Jideonwo said while describing what he sees as troubling online trends.
The controversy traces back to a January 2026 interview on TVC News, where the media entrepreneur discussed his personal choices while promoting his book “How Depression Saved My Life.” During that conversation, Jideonwo emphasized that he had no immediate plans to marry, a comment that some viewers interpreted as unusual within Nigeria’s socially conservative culture.
“I’m Not Afraid Of Women; I’m Just Unmarried,” he said during the interview, explaining that he had never been with a woman who placed financial expectations on him.
Those remarks fueled online speculation, with some social media users interpreting his stance as “low-key,” suggesting a hidden sexual orientation.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s strict legal framework surrounding same-sex relationships continues to shape public conversations on the topic. The Same-Sex Marriage Prohibition Act criminalizes same-sex unions and carries penalties of up to 14 years in prison, a punishment many observers say contributes to secrecy around sexuality.
