The demise of actors, Junior Pope, Mr. Ibu, and banker, Herbert Wigwe were top of the list of Google’s most searched deaths in Nigeria in 2024.
A Google Trends’ report released on Tuesday revealed that John Paul Obumneme Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, ranked as the most searched death. His tragic passing on 10 April 2024 shocked the nation, prompting widespread online inquiries.
Junior Pope d!ed in a boat accident on the River Niger in Anambra State while traveling to Asaba to shoot a movie. Three crew members also lost their lives in the incident. Initially, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) declared him alive after videos circulated online showing villagers attempting to revive him. However, he was later officially pronounced de.ad.
Veteran comedian and actor John Okafor, widely known as Mr. Ibu, followed closely as the second most searched death. Mr. Ibu passed away on 2 March 2024 at the age of 62. Known for his comedic brilliance, his sudden demise drew significant attention and heartfelt tributes from fans across the country.
Herbert Wigwe, the renowned banker and philanthropist, was the third most searched de.ath. Wigwe’s unexpected passing on 9 February 2024 left a significant void in Nigeria’s financial sector and sparked widespread curiosity about the circumstances surrounding his de.ath.
The fourth most searched de.ath was that of Sisi Quadri, the veteran Yoruba movie actor, who d!ed on 1 March 2024 at the age of 44 following a brief illness. His unique comedic roles made him a beloved figure in the Yoruba-speaking regions.
Ifeanyi Ubah, the prominent businessman and politician, ranked fifth. He passed away on 27 July 2024 in London after suffering a cardiac arrest. His contributions to Nigeria’s economic and political landscape left an indelible mark.
The de.ath of Aduke Gold was the sixth most searched in 2024. Enitan Bello Aduke Ajayi, popularly known as Aduke Gold, was a versatile Nigerian gospel minister, educationist, and entrepreneur. She d!ed suddenly on 12 August 2024 at the age of 34, leaving fans in shock.
Onyeka Onwenu, the legendary musician and actress fondly called the “Elegant Stallion,” was the seventh most searched. She passed away on 30 July 2024 after collapsing while performing at the 80th birthday celebration of Emzor Pharmaceuticals CEO Stella Okoli in Lagos. Onwenu was 72.
Renowned Nollywood actor, Amaechi Muonagor ranked eighth. He d!ed on 24 March 2024 at the age of 62 due to kidney failure. Muonagor, who had battled diabetes and a stroke in previous years, was celebrated for his compelling roles in traditional and contemporary Nollywood films.
The de.ath of Liam Payne, the international pop star and former One Direction member, was the ninth most searched. Payne d!ed on 16 October 2024 at the age of 31 after falling from a third-floor balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His passing sparked global tributes, including from Nigerian fans.
Rounding out the list was Rukayat Gawat, a celebrated Islamic singer known for her soulful renditions. She d!ed on 24 September 2024, leaving a void in Nigeria’s religious and cultural music scene.