Urgent Documentary “Hunted” Highlights Perilous Plight of LGBTQ+ Nigerians Amidst Global Aid Cuts
In a stark demonstration of the devastating impact of global aid reductions on the world’s most vulnerable populations, two prominent UK cultural institutions are set to screen a powerful new documentary titled “Hunted: Kidnapped, blackmailed and tortured for being LGBTQ+”. The film, a compelling exposé from The Independent’s award-winning chief international correspondent Bel Trew, plunges viewers into the harrowing reality of “kito” attacks in Nigeria. These abhorrent acts see members of the LGBTQ+ community ensnared, humiliated, and extorted by ruthless gangs, fuelling a disturbing surge in violence and hatred. Victims are abducted, subjected to brutal beatings and torture, all while being filmed for extortion, with the footage then disseminated online, irrevocably shattering lives.
The urgency of “Hunted” is amplified by the current global climate of aid cuts. Survivors of these horrific attacks, many of whom are also living with HIV, now face the devastating collapse of the very clinics and shelters that once offered them vital support and a lifeline. Bel Trew’s courageous journey to Nigeria allows her to directly engage with individuals fighting for their survival, bringing their stories to the forefront.
Screenings and Support for Global Queer Communities
The documentary is slated for a special screening at The Arzner cinema on Monday, 22 June, at 8:15 PM. This event forms part of the cinema’s dedicated Pride Month programming, which features a curated selection of LGBTQ+-focused and queer-adjacent films, alongside vital fundraising initiatives. The Arzner, recognised as the UK’s first and only LGBTQ+ cinema, exclusively screens films that align with its core mission. Harry Warren, the Film Programmer at The Arzner, emphasised the significance of such fundraisers, stating, “Fundraisers, such as Hunted, are an important part of our programming, especially in such times when LGBTQ+ rights are under attack, and it is a way for us to give back to the communities that support us.” He added, “It is Pride 24/7 here at The Arzner, but for this Pride Month, we wanted to put on lots of events for queer communities to enjoy.”
A second screening is scheduled to take place at the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) on Tuesday, 7 July, at 6:30 PM, continuing the film’s UK exhibition run as part of its broader release strategy. Bengi Ünsal, Director of the ICA, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting, “We are pleased to once again partner with The Independent to screen this important and urgent documentary.” She further elaborated on the ICA’s commitment to independent cinema and challenging narratives: “The ICA Cinema has long been a home for independent film, safeguarding a space where filmmakers can take risks, challenge form, and tell stories that fall outside commercial expectations. At a time of growing international division and increasing pressures on freedom of expression, we firmly believe we have an increased responsibility to bring challenging, necessary stories to audiences and create space for dialogue, empathy and understanding.”
“Hunted” will officially launch on Monday, 22 June, and will be accessible for viewing on The Independent’s website and YouTube channel.
The Devastating Ripple Effect of Aid Reductions
The backdrop to these screenings is a grim reality of diminishing international aid. Last year, significant cuts to US foreign aid, spearheaded by the Trump administration, led to the effective shuttering of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), diverting billions of dollars from crucial global projects.
In the UK, while funding for certain critical areas such as aid to Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan has been maintained, funding specifically for HIV has not received the same protected status. Future UK aid expenditure on HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment is largely expected to be channelled through the Global Fund. However, the UK has confirmed a substantial cut of £150 million to its contributions to the Global Fund, which was announced last December. Furthermore, bilateral aid programmes directed towards developing countries in Africa and beyond are also facing significant reductions. Projections indicate a stark 56 per cent decline in UK support to Africa between 2026-27 and 2028-29, with the continent bearing the brunt of these cuts.
A Plea for Compassion and Action
Bel Trew, the investigative force behind “Hunted,” shared her profound concerns regarding the current situation: “Members of the LGBTQ+ community are in hiding right now, survivors of torture and humiliation. Some have been hounded to their deaths as discriminatory attacks have surged. Those living with HIV are now facing the loss of their life-sustaining medication and prevention therapy amid unprecedented aid cuts.” She underscored the immense courage of those who shared their stories, stating, “Those who have spoken to me for this film are beyond brave, given the fear we would all feel in such a situation. The world cannot turn its back on the most vulnerable at a critical moment.”
The production of this impactful documentary is part of The Independent’s broader initiative, the Rethinking Global Aid project, which aims to shed light on critical global issues and foster informed discourse. The readers of The Independent are characterised as independently-minded global citizens, driven by their attitudes and a desire for authentic information. In an increasingly fractured world, they value factual reporting and frank opinions from a trusted, unbiased news source. Empowered with knowledge and inspiration, these readers are encouraged to take a stand for their deeply held beliefs.
