Nigerians in the United Kingdom are mourning the death of Mrs. Olubunmi Okeniyi, who passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2024, just weeks after moving to the UK with her two children.
She had relocated to Sunderland on September 16 to join her husband, Mr. Jacob Okeniyi.
The sad news has raised concerns among the Nigerian community in the UK about the well-being of new immigrants.
Some have expressed sorrow over the increasing number of deaths among Nigerians shortly after arriving in the country. This incident follows two similar cases earlier this year.
A message from the community announcing Mrs. Okeniyi’s passing also appealed for financial help to cover burial expenses.
The message 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. She is survived by her husband, Mr. Jacob Okeniyi, and we urgently seek donations to support her immediate burial, as her husband cannot afford the costs. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated during this difficult time.”
According to Godwin Ejeh, a member of the Nigerian community in Sunderland, Mrs. Okeniyi, 49, had been battling breast cancer before moving to the UK.
She started receiving treatment after her arrival, but doctors determined that her condition was beyond recovery and advised palliative care. Due to financial challenges, her care was provided at home by visiting medical professionals.
On the day she passed away, Mrs. Okeniyi had asked for help to use the restroom. After her husband and children assisted her, her condition worsened suddenly. Though caregivers were called back, they arrived too late to save her.
As of Wednesday, £5,800 had been raised to support the family’s burial expenses, with £3,557 coming from a GoFundMe campaign set up by the community.
