A Nigerian man has shared the emotional story of how he mobilized a community to attend the funeral of rising singer Ifunanya Nwangene, widely known as Nanyah, who tragically died from a snakebite. The organizer, identified as Harrytenor Chiadikobi on Facebook, detailed the collective effort that raised significant funds to support the burial proceedings.
Nanyah's Untimely Death
Nanyah, aged 26, passed away on January 31, 2026, after being bitten by a snake at her residence. Despite immediately rushing to a hospital following the incident, she did not survive, leaving fans and loved ones in deep mourning. Her death sent shockwaves through the Nigerian music community, highlighting the sudden and devastating nature of the tragedy.
Organizing the Funeral Attendance
Upon hearing the news of Nanyah's death, Harrytenor Chiadikobi was heartbroken and felt compelled to act. He explained in a Facebook post that he paused in disbelief, wondering how someone so full of life could succumb to death so abruptly. Driven by a genuine appreciation for her talent and hard work, he decided to create a group chat for individuals in Owerri, Aba, and Port Harcourt who wished to pay their last respects but lacked the means or opportunity to do so independently.
The initiative quickly gained momentum, with the group growing massively as more people joined the cause. Chiadikobi emphasized that the goal was to provide a platform for collective support, ensuring that Nanyah's fans could honor her memory together.
Fundraising and Contributions
Through donations from numerous wonderful personalities, the group successfully raised over 950,000 naira. This amount was allocated towards transport fares for attendees and a condolence support package for Nanyah's grieving family. Chiadikobi led a delegation of 32 people to the funeral, which was held on February 14, 2026, in Nara Unateze, Enugu State.
In his post, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed, stating, "You will never lose your young, nothing in your life will be cut short. Longevity will be your portion, now and always Amen." He also acknowledged key coordinators who assisted in the effort, including Vivian Obasi Agugua, Thelma Obianuju Nkwogu, Chilaka Davvy, Linus Ikechukwu, and Victor, praising their kindheartedness and dedication.
Community Impact and Legacy
This movement not only facilitated attendance at the funeral but also showcased the power of community solidarity in times of loss. Chiadikobi's actions reflect a broader trend of Nigerians coming together to support artistic talents and their families during difficult moments. Nanyah's memory continues to resonate, with fans remembering her as a hardworking and talented individual whose life was cut short too soon.
The story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of collective empathy. As the music industry mourns Nanyah, her legacy lives on through the heartfelt efforts of those who honored her in her final journey.
