Tragic Discovery of Nigerian Student in New York Apartment
Oreoluwa Odetunde, a Nigerian national and recent graduate of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has been found dead in her off-campus residence located in New York, United States. The distressing incident occurred on Thursday, February 5, 2026, as confirmed by reports from The Cornell Daily Sun. Odetunde was a first-year student enrolled in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at the S.C. Johnson College of Business, part of Cornell University, where she had been actively pursuing her academic and professional ambitions.
Academic Background and University Response
Odetunde completed her undergraduate studies in economics at the University of Lagos in 2017, demonstrating a strong academic foundation before advancing to Cornell University for her postgraduate education. In response to her untimely passing, Cornell University expressed profound sorrow through a LinkedIn post from the Cornell Johnson Graduate School, stating, "We are devastated for Oreoluwa’s family, friends, classmates, and instructors, and extend our deepest condolences in this difficult time." The university organized support meetings for the S.C. Johnson College community, with sessions held on Friday, February 6, and Monday, February 9, to provide emotional assistance and solidarity during this period of grief.
Involvement in Student Activities and Professional Experience
Beyond her academic pursuits, Odetunde was an engaged member of several student organizations at Cornell University, including the Johnson African Business Society, the Black Graduate Business Association, and the Old Ezra Finance Club. She held prestigious positions as a Forté Fellow and Sage Scholar, highlighting her leadership and academic excellence. Professionally, she had participated in research and strategy analysis roles at companies such as Anchoria Asset Management and Greenwich Merchant Bank, showcasing her commitment to applying her skills in real-world contexts.
Context of Similar Incidents Involving Nigerians Abroad
This tragic event echoes other recent cases of Nigerians found deceased in foreign countries. For instance, in the United Kingdom, the Metropolitan Police confirmed the death of Nkiru Chima, a 60-year-old Nigerian woman who was a victim of a fatal stabbing in her Romford residence. Additionally, a Nigerian postgraduate student named Hammed passed away in the UK after battling advanced cancer, with a GoFundMe campaign initially for his treatment converted to a burial appeal. Another Nigerian, Chiowa Obeigbe, was found dead in his Gloucester apartment, underscoring a pattern of unfortunate incidents affecting the Nigerian diaspora abroad.
The loss of Oreoluwa Odetunde has sent shockwaves through both the Nigerian and international academic communities, with many mourning the promising future cut short. As investigations continue, her legacy as a dedicated student and active community member remains a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by international students pursuing education overseas.
