The year 2024 began with high hopes for many prominent Nigerians but was overshadowed by the tragic deaths of influential figures from various sectors, including politics, entertainment, and the military. These losses left the nation in mourning and created significant voids in their respective fields.
Among the notable figures who passed away were Senator Ifeanyi Ubah and Isa Dogonyaro, whose unexpected deaths sent shockwaves through the political landscape. The entertainment industry also suffered deeply with the loss of Nollywood icons like John Okafor, popularly known as “Mr. Ibu,” and Junior Pope. Meanwhile, the military mourned the passing of Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, whose contributions to national security were widely recognized.
As the year comes to a close, here is a list of ten prominent Nigerians whose deaths left the nation grieving:
1. Isa Dogonyaro
Isa Dogonyaro, the lawmaker representing Babura/Garki Federal Constituency in Jigawa State, passed away after a brief illness in Abuja on May 5, 2024. His death was announced by Akintunde Rotimi, spokesperson for the House of Representatives.
2. Olaide Akinyemi
Musiliu Olaide Akinremi, a two-term federal lawmaker representing Ibadan North Federal Constituency, died on July 10, 2024, at the age of 51. His passing was confirmed by the House leadership.
3. Ekene Adams
Hon. Ekene Abubakar Adams, representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in Kaduna State under the Labour Party, died on July 16, 2024, at just 39 years old after battling ill health.
4. Senator Ifeanyi Ubah
Anambra South Senator Ifeanyi Ubah passed away in a London hospital on July 27, 2024, at the age of 52, after battling an undisclosed illness.
5. Herbert Wigwe
Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Holdings, tragically died in a helicopter crash along with his wife, son, and three others on February 9, 2024, in California, USA.
6. John Okafor “Mr. Ibu”
Renowned Nollywood comedian John Okafor, affectionately known as “Mr. Ibu,” passed away on March 2, 2024, at the age of 62. Despite battling illness in his final months, he left a legacy of laughter and unforgettable roles.
7. Junior Pope
Nollywood actor Pope Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, died on April 10, 2024, at the age of 39. His death, alongside three others after falling into a river, was a devastating blow to the entertainment industry.
8. Onyeka Onwenu
Legendary singer Onyeka Onwenu, fondly called “The Elegant Stallion,” passed away on July 30, 2024, at the age of 72. She reportedly collapsed after performing at a birthday party and later died at Reddington Hospital, Lagos.
9. Rukayat Gawat
Renowned Islamic singer Rukayat Gawat passed away on September 24, 2024, leaving a void in Nigeria’s religious music scene. Her soulful songs resonated deeply with audiences.
10. Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja
Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, died on November 5, 2024, from an undisclosed illness in Lagos. His death, just months after assuming office, was a significant loss to Nigeria’s military leadership.
These individuals made remarkable contributions to their fields, and their legacies will continue to inspire many across the nation.