Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom have expressed deep concern over an increasing number of sudden deaths within their community, following recent incidents involving seemingly healthy individuals collapsing unexpectedly.
On December 29, 2024, an international student known as Ross tragically passed away after collapsing in South Wales. According to a GoFundMe page set up by his wife, Benedita, Ross had no prior medical conditions and succumbed before emergency services could arrive. He was on the verge of graduating in January 2025.
Earlier, on October 7, 2024, another Nigerian, Chinonso Ezeonwumere, pursuing an MSc in Management at the University of Hertfordshire, collapsed while awaiting his work shift and was pronounced dead despite resuscitation efforts. Ezeonwumere had arrived in the UK in September 2023, aspiring for a brighter future.
In a similar vein, on February 22, 2024, 37-year-old Nigerian caregiver, Chidimma Ezenyili, collapsed while attending to a client and passed away two days later. Before relocating to the UK, Ezenyili had practiced law in Nigeria.
Community members have attributed these sudden deaths to factors such as the strenuous demands of balancing work and studies, financial pressures, and the high cost of living in the UK. One individual recounted nearly losing his life due to the exhaustion from working consecutive morning and night shifts. Another highlighted the mental strain of managing bills and responsibilities in a foreign country.
These incidents have prompted calls for increased awareness about the health risks associated with overexertion and the importance of seeking medical attention when needed. The Nigerian community in the UK is urging compatriots to prioritize their well-being and to support one another during challenging times.
Efforts are underway to provide assistance to the bereaved families, including fundraising for funeral arrangements and support for surviving dependents. The community continues to advocate for better access to healthcare and resources to mitigate such tragedies in the future.
