A United Kingdom-based Nigerian mother of three, Omotayo Abioye, has died after a battle with breast cancer, with her family calling for public support to cater for her burial and the welfare of her children.
PUNCH Metro learnt from a statement shared on X on Friday by the former president of Nigerians in the UK, Benjamin Kuti, that Omotayo died on April 5 at the age of 40.
According to Kuti, Omotayo was described by her family as a devoted mother, loving wife, and compassionate individual whose life impacted many.
In the statement, the family expressed deep grief over her passing, noting that she fought courageously against the illness.
“It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Omotayo Abioye, who departed this life on Sunday, the 5th of April, in the United Kingdom.
“She was kind, generous, and full of life, with a radiant and bubbly spirit that lit up every room she entered. She loved deeply, laughed freely, and had a beautiful gift for bringing people together,” the statement added.
Kuti also highlighted her strong faith and resilience, noting that she remained steadfast despite her health challenges.
He noted that the deceased was survived by three children.
He added, “A woman of unwavering faith, she served God wholeheartedly and remained strong, joyful, and graceful even in the face of illness. Her life was a powerful testimony of resilience, strength, and hope.
“She leaves behind three beautiful children, aged 11, 9, and 7 – her pride, her joy, and her greatest legacy.”
The statement appealed to Nigerians both at home and abroad to support them during this difficult time.
He noted that contributions, prayers, and support would help ease the burden on the bereaved family while honouring her memory.
“In this moment of grief, we humbly call on Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to stand with the family.
“We are raising funds to give our dear Omotayo a befitting and dignified farewell and to support her children as they begin a life without their beloved mother.
“No amount is too small. Your support, prayers, and kindness will go a long way in honouring her memory and easing the burden on her loved ones,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe appeal was created following her death at the hands of a man identified as Jide Abioye.
As of the time of filing this report, a sum of £1,160 has been raised out of the £10,000 target.
PUNCH Metro reported on February 19 that a Nigerian woman, Oluranti Akinyemi, died in the United Kingdom shortly after reportedly arriving in the country for her son’s graduation ceremony.
Our correspondent had reported that a fundraising campaign was launched on JustGiving to raise £20,000 to repatriate her remains to Nigeria and cover related expenses.
Similarly, the death of a Nigerian student, Douglas Izevbigie, in the United Kingdom, sparked fresh concerns over chronic illnesses among Nigerians living abroad.
He was said to have died on January 21 at a UK hospital after a battle with aggressive leukaemia.
