Masters student celebrates first Dundee Pride after escaping persecution in Nigeria

Nmesoma Paul, a Masters student at Dundee University, is celebrating his first Pride Month in Dundee after narrowly escaping persecution in Nigeria where homosexuality is illegal. Paul faced severe danger in Nigeria, including being kidnapped, beaten, and extorted, before securing a student visa to the UK. Despite losing his familial ties, Paul finds acceptance within the Dundee University LGBTQ+ society, serving as the secretary and marking a significant milestone in his journey from fear to freedom at the upcoming Dundee Pride event.

Nmesoma Paul, a Masters student at Dundee University, is celebrating his first Pride Month in Dundee after narrowly escaping persecution in Nigeria, where homosexuality is illegal. Paul faced severe danger in his home country, including being kidnapped, beaten, and extorted. After a traumatic encounter last year where he was abducted, he was able to negotiate his release and subsequently secured a student visa to the UK.

Upon his arrival in Dundee, Paul's family, upon discovering his absence, disowned him and threatened his life should he return to Nigeria. Despite losing his familial ties, Paul finds solace and acceptance within the Dundee University LGBTQ+ society, where he serves as the secretary. Paul shared his story with Rebecca Baird, emphasizing the freedom and happiness he has found in Dundee.

The Dundee Pride event takes place on June 15-16, 2024, and Paul, now openly living as his true self, plans to participate fully, marking a significant milestone in his journey from fear to freedom.