A wave of sorrow has swept through the Nigerian community in the United Kingdom following the unexpected death of Mrs. Olubunmi Okeniyi, a Nigerian woman who had relocated to the country with her two children just a month prior. Mrs. Okeniyi tragically passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2024, in Sunderland, barely a month after joining her husband, Mr. Jacob Okeniyi.
According to a statement released by the Nigerian community in the UK, Mrs. Okeniyi arrived in Sunderland on September 16, 2024, along with her two sons. The family had been looking forward to starting a new chapter in the UK after reuniting with Mr. Okeniyi. However, their joy was short-lived due to the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding her sudden death.
The announcement of her death has highlighted growing concerns among Nigerians in the UK about the rising number of fatalities occurring shortly after relocation. This tragic incident follows other recent cases, including that of a Nigerian man, Saheed Wahab, who passed away just one day after arriving in the UK earlier this year to pursue a master’s degree. Another Nigerian man also reportedly died of a heart attack two months after joining his wife in Hull City.
In response to Mrs. Okeniyi’s passing, the Nigerian community in Sunderland launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for her burial. A statement from the community read: “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 family is seeking financial support as they are unable to cover the burial expenses.
Additional details about Mrs. Okeniyi’s health revealed that she had been battling breast cancer while still in Nigeria. Upon her arrival in the UK, she began treatment, but medical professionals determined that her condition was terminal. Due to the family’s immigration status, her palliative care had to be administered at home by visiting medical staff.
On the day she passed away, Mrs. Okeniyi reportedly called her husband, expressing the need to use the restroom. After assisting her, her condition worsened suddenly. Though her caregivers were called back to the house, Mrs. Okeniyi passed away at 4:30 pm.
A member of the Nigerian community, Godwin Ejeh, shared further insight into the incident, stating that Mrs. Okeniyi was 49 years old and had been fighting cancer for some time. Despite her efforts to receive treatment, the prognosis was grim.
As of Wednesday night, October 18, Mr. Okeniyi confirmed that approximately £5,800 had been raised through the GoFundMe campaign, with £3,557 contributed as of that evening.
