NiDCOM demands probe after Nigerian TikToker found dead in Kenyan apartment

The Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, has urged Kenyan authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a Nigerian content moderator, Ladi Olubunmi, in Nairobi.

Olubunmi, who was employed by Teleperformance, a social media contracting firm in Kenya, was found dead in her apartment last week.

Reports indicate that her decomposing body was discovered three days after she had allegedly passed away, following her unexplained absence from work.

According to a report by the Associated Press on Wednesday, some of Olubunmi’s colleagues accused her employer of preventing her from travelling to Nigeria, despite her multiple requests.

In a statement signed by Gabriel Odu from NiDCOM’s Media and Public Relations Unit on Thursday, Dabiri-Erewa emphasised the importance of proper labour laws to protect Nigerians working abroad.

She stated that “proper mobility of labour law in Nigeria would protect the rights and well-being of Nigerians employed abroad, ensuring proper documentation, monitoring, and support systems.”

She further noted that the establishment of such laws would help prevent cases where Nigerian workers abroad struggle with employment conditions, lack of mental health support, and restrictions on returning home when necessary.

“The Chairman, NiDCOM, extends heartfelt condolences to Ms. Olubunmi’s family, friends, and colleagues.

“She urges a thorough investigation by Kenyan authorities to determine the circumstances surrounding Olubunmi’s untimely passing,” the statement read.

Dabiri-Erewa also assured all that NiDCOM was in contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Kenya to monitor the situation and provide necessary support to Olubunmi’s family.

She appealed to Nigerians in Kenya to remain calm while the case is being investigated.

Reiterating the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad, she advised job seekers to ensure they engage only with reputable organisations and to stay informed about their rights and available support structures.

This is not the first time a Nigerian has died under suspicious circumstances in Kenya.

In July 2021, tragedy struck at a house party when two Nigerians lost their lives under unexplained conditions.

One reportedly fell from the 7th floor of Skyhorse Apartment in Kilimani, dying instantly, while the other allegedly slumped in the kitchen and was later pronounced dead.