A United Kingdom-based Nigerian woman, Omotayo Abioye, has died at the age of 40 after a prolonged battle with breast cancer, leaving behind three children and a grieving family appealing for public support.
Her death, which occurred on April 5, was disclosed in a statement shared on Friday by a former president of Nigerians in the UK, Benjamin Kuti.
The statement described the deceased as a devoted mother and wife whose life touched many, noting that she fought bravely through her illness before her passing.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Omotayo Abioye, who died on Sunday, April 5, in the United Kingdom,” the statement read.
Family members portrayed her as a warm and compassionate individual, known for her generosity and vibrant personality.
“She was kind, generous, and full of life, with a radiant spirit that lit up every room.
She loved deeply and had a unique ability to bring people together,” the statement added.
Kuti further noted that despite her health challenges, the deceased remained steadfast in faith and resilient until her final moments.
In the wake of her death, the family has launched a public appeal for financial assistance to support burial arrangements and the welfare of her children.
“We humbly call on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to stand with the family during this difficult time.
Contributions will help give her a dignified burial and support her children as they face life without their mother,” the statement added.
A fundraising campaign has since been initiated online, with £1,160 raised as of the time of filing this report, out of a £10,000 target.
Her death adds to a growing list of recent losses among Nigerians in the diaspora linked to health challenges.
In February, a Nigerian woman, Oluranti Akinyemi, died in the UK shortly after arriving for her son’s graduation, prompting a separate fundraising effort to repatriate her remains.
Similarly, a Nigerian student, Douglas Izevbigie, died in January after battling aggressive leukaemia, raising fresh concerns about chronic illnesses among Nigerians living abroad.