Amemuso Choir Director Shares Heartbreaking Account of Ifunanya Nwangene's Final Hours
The Nigerian music community continues to mourn the tragic loss of rising star Ifunanya Nwangene, with new details emerging about her final moments. Sam Ezugwu, director of the Abuja Metropolitan Music Society (AMEMUSO) choir and opera group where Nwangene performed, has provided a detailed account of the events leading to her untimely death.
Hospital Efforts and Medication Search
According to Ezugwu's emotional recollection, medical personnel at the hospital administered antivenom immediately after Nwangene's arrival. However, the situation required additional medication, specifically neostigmine, which prompted an urgent search across multiple pharmacies. After numerous calls, the medication was eventually located at Skylark Pharmacy near the National Hospital in Abuja.
During this critical period, Nwangene's condition deteriorated rapidly. Ezugwu revealed that by the time choir members were preparing to retrieve the medication, the young singer had lost her ability to speak and could only communicate through hand gestures. Tragically, as the group departed for the pharmacy, Nwangene stopped breathing and required immediate oxygen support.
Neighbors' Response and Transportation Challenges
The account also highlights the desperate efforts made by Nwangene's neighbors immediately after the snake bite incident. According to Ezugwu, one neighbor attempted to start his vehicle three separate times to transport her to medical care, but the car repeatedly failed to start. Faced with this transportation crisis, Nwangene demonstrated remarkable resilience by running approximately 500 meters to the estate gate, where she secured a motorcycle that finally transported her to the hospital.
Post-Incident Discoveries and Family Response
In a chilling revelation, Ezugwu shared that after Nwangene's passing, a professional snake handler visited her residence and discovered three snakes in her room, including a dangerous cobra. This discovery has added another layer of tragedy to the already heartbreaking story.
The choir director further explained that Nwangene's father was contacted about her condition and subsequently instructed that her body be transported via ambulance to Enugu State for burial arrangements, highlighting the family's immediate response to the devastating news.
Fan Reactions and Community Mourning
The music community and fans across Nigeria have expressed profound grief over Nwangene's passing. Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes, with many commenting on the singer's strength and the tragic circumstances surrounding her death. One fan noted on Instagram: "That running made the venom spread even before she got to the hospital," while another praised her determination: "Ifunanya, you are one strong girl. If it is by strength, you would have survived."
Legacy of a Rising Star
Since news of her passing broke, old performance videos of Nwangene have resurfaced online, showcasing her exceptional vocal talent. Particularly notable were her renditions of UEFA and Manchester United anthems, which demonstrated her unique voice and musical versatility. The entertainment industry remembers her as a promising talent whose career was tragically cut short.
The detailed account provided by Sam Ezugwu offers closure to many fans while simultaneously highlighting the urgent need for improved emergency response systems and snake bite treatment protocols in Nigeria. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding her death, the music community remains united in mourning the loss of a bright young talent.
