In a series of candid and thought-provoking posts on the morning of April 12, 2025, prominent Nigerian gay rights activist Bisi Alimi ignited a conversation on social media, drawing direct links between global divorce trends, infidelity, and the harmful stereotypes faced by the queer community.
The Morning Rant That Sparked a Debate
Taking to his Instagram platform, Alimi delivered a detailed reflection that covered a wide range of societal issues. He hinted that a specific event may have prompted his passionate outburst, cryptically stating, "There is no smoke without fire, and there is one on the mountain." His posts quickly captured widespread attention for their blunt honesty and critique of deeply ingrained social norms.
Dissecting the State of Heterosexual Marriages
Alimi presented stark statistics to frame his argument, pointing out that 40–50% of heterosexual marriages globally end in divorce. He didn't stop there, highlighting another troubling phenomenon: the "silent divorce." This term describes couples who continue to live under the same roof but are emotionally and romantically disconnected, no longer functioning as a true partnership.
He identified infidelity as the primary culprit behind the collapse of many straight marriages, labeling it as another form of promiscuity. This point became the foundation for a powerful comparison. Alimi challenged the societal double standard that frequently labels gay men as inherently "promiscuous" and treats queer relationships as morally inferior.
He reminded his audience that the stigma around HIV/AIDS was historically weaponized to reinforce this damaging narrative. Countering the stereotype with data, he noted that research often shows gay marriages last longer within the first decade than their heterosexual counterparts.
The Weight of Shame and Hypocrisy
Alimi's critique went beyond statistics to examine the psychological and social pressures upholding traditional marriage. He argued that the "moral high ground" society grants to straight unions is built on unrealistic expectations and stereotypes that many couples struggle to meet.
A significant portion of his reflection focused on the role of shame. He claimed that countless parents remain in unhappy marriages not out of love, but due to the paralyzing fear of "what will people say." He described this as a toxic form of shame that is passed down through generations, perpetuating cycles of discontent.
In a bold final move, Alimi turned his attention to religious institutions, alleging that some of the biggest "sexual predators" are men who hold scriptures and microphones. He concluded his viral thread with a touch of personal reflection, writing, "I don't even know why I woke up like this today… let me go back to living my Brazilian dream."
Bisi Alimi's unfiltered morning posts have successfully shifted the discourse, forcing a re-examination of the myths surrounding marriage, morality, and the persistent stigma against the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria and beyond.
