Nigerians in UK mourn as woman dies 27 days after relocation

Nigerians in the United Kingdom are mourning the tragic death of one Mrs Olubunmi Okeniyi, who passed away nearly a month after moving to the UK with her children.

Mrs Okeniyi, who relocated to Sunderland on September 16, 2024, to join her husband, Mr Jacob Okeniyi, reportedly died on Sunday, October 13, 2024.

Her sudden demise has sparked concerns about the well-being of Nigerians who migrate abroad.

A statement shared by Nigerians in the UK on X confirmed the unfortunate incident.

“With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Mrs Olubunmi Okeniyi, who tragically passed away on 13/10/24 at 4:30 pm in Sunderland, UK,” the group posted. “Mrs Olubunmi arrived from Nigeria with her two sons on 16/09/24 and is survived by her husband, Mr. Jacob Okeniyi.”

In the message, the community also sought financial support, revealing that Mrs. Okeniyi’s husband was struggling to meet burial expenses.

“We are urgently seeking donations to assist with her immediate burial, as her husband cannot afford the costs. Please support by donating through the link below. Every contribution, no matter how small, will be deeply appreciated during this difficult time.”

The heartbreaking news adds to a growing list of Nigerians who have lost their lives shortly after arriving in the UK.

Earlier this year, Saheed Wahab, a Nigerian student, died just one day after moving to the UK for his master’s degree. Similarly, an unnamed Nigerian man reportedly suffered a fatal heart attack two months after relocating to Hull City to join his wife.

Cause of Death Linked to Breast Cancer

Providing more details about Mrs Okeniyi’s death, an X user named Godwin Ejeh revealed that the 49-year-old had been battling breast cancer before leaving Nigeria. Ejeh, citing a statement from the Chairman of the Nigerian community in Sunderland, said that Mrs Okeniyi resumed treatment upon her arrival in the UK.

However, doctors soon advised that her cancer was too advanced for recovery, recommending palliative care instead. Due to the family’s immigration status, palliative care was administered at home, with medical staff visiting periodically to assist.

On the day of her death, Mrs. Okeniyi reportedly asked her husband for help using the commode. After the caregivers had performed routine care and left, her condition deteriorated rapidly.

“As she was passing urine, her countenance changed immediately,” Ejeh wrote. “Her family rushed to assist her back to the bed and called the caregivers, who were already on their way back. Unfortunately, she passed away at 4:30 pm.”

Community Raises £5,800 for Burial Costs

Ejeh disclosed that by Wednesday evening, the victim’s husband confirmed that a total of £5,800 had been raised through donations, including £3,557 from the GoFundMe campaign.

The tragic death of Mrs. Okeniyi has reignited discussions about the challenges faced by Nigerian migrants, especially those dealing with medical conditions.

Many in the Nigerian community have expressed condolences and solidarity, urging people to contribute towards the burial expenses and offer support to the grieving family.