Fast-Rising Abuja Singer Nanyah Dies from Deadly Snake Bite Amid Healthcare Failures

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into deep mourning following the shocking death of 25-year-old singer Ifunanya Nwangene, popularly known by her stage name Nanyah. The talented vocalist, who blended classical, jazz, RnB, and soul music, reportedly passed away after being bitten by a cobra snake at her residence in Lugbe, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 31, when Nanyah was attacked by the venomous snake while at home. Sources close to the late artist revealed that this was not the first time snakes had been spotted in or around her apartment, raising concerns about how the reptiles gained access to the property. Friends who later searched her home discovered two cobras, fueling widespread speculation and grief online.

In a desperate bid to save her life, Nanyah drove herself to two different hospitals seeking urgent medical attention. Tragically, she was turned away or inadequately treated due to the absence of anti-venom at the facilities. Reports indicate that she eventually passed away at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Abuja, where some accounts suggest the hospital failed to administer a second dose of the life-saving drug. Kingsley Nwangene, a close friend and possibly a relative, shared a heart-wrenching account on social media, recounting how Nanyah called him around 8:30 a.m. that morning, saying, “Emy, don’t panic, but a snake has bitten me. I’m on my way to the hospital.” Despite her efforts, the lack of immediate and effective intervention proved fatal.

Nanyah, often hailed as the “Soprano Queen,” rose to prominence after appearing on The Voice Nigeria in 2021. Hailing from Enugu State in southeast Nigeria, she had built a growing fanbase in Abuja’s music scene, performing as a soprano with the Amemuso Choir. The choir confirmed her passing in a statement signed by its Music Director, Sam Ezugwu, describing her as a “beloved soprano” whose death is a “major loss” to the community. Fans and colleagues remembered her as a vibrant, rising star with an angelic voice, whose potential was cut short at just 25 years old.

News of her demise has sparked an outpouring of reactions on social media platforms, with Nigerians expressing shock, grief, and anger. Many have paid tribute, sharing videos of her powerful performances and dropping dove emojis (🕊️) in her honor. However, some users speculated about supernatural causes, alleging the snake attack could be linked to “juju” or spiritual manipulation, though no evidence supports these claims. One X user lamented, “Rest In Peace Nanyah! That an upcoming talent like her could just be taken out by snake bite is the reason we need better healthcare.” Another highlighted the irony, noting, “In my entire life, never heard someone died of snake bite honestly… don’t think this ordinary.” Catholic priest Fr. James A shared a video of her singing, calling it “so sad and heartbreaking that she had to die without help or medical intervention.”

This heartbreaking incident has once again exposed the glaring deficiencies in Nigeria’s emergency response system, particularly the chronic shortage of essential drugs like anti-venom in hospitals—even in the nation’s capital. Experts and netizens alike have criticized the healthcare infrastructure, with one commenter stating, “Nigeria failed you,” in reference to Nanyah’s futile attempts to seek help. Anti-venom typically costs around ₦80,000 per vial, yet many facilities lack it, leading to preventable deaths. As of the time of filing this report, no official statements have been issued by health authorities or the police, and it remains unclear if an investigation into the circumstances of her death has been launched.

Nanyah’s sudden departure leaves a void in the local music scene, where she was described by friends and fans as a young artist on the brink of greater success. May her soul rest in peace. 🕊️