JUST IN: Former BBNaija Star Dies After Brief Illness

Former Big Brother Nigeria (BBNaija) star Francisca Owumi has passed away, as confirmed by her family in a solemn announcement on her official Instagram account. The post read, “A daughter and sister. May her soul rest in peace, Amen,” though the exact date of her death was not disclosed. It is believed that Owumi died following a brief illness.

Owumi gained fame as the first runner-up in the inaugural season of BBNaija in 2006, where she captivated audiences with her energetic dance moves. She competed alongside notable housemates such as winner Katung Aduwak, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, and Gideon Okeke. Tragically, Owumi’s passing marks another loss from that season, following the death of fellow housemate Joseph Ada earlier this year.

In addition to her reality TV fame, Owumi explored the Nigerian music scene in 2012, releasing two singles, “Gbadun You” and “Diva,” under her record label, Cisca Entertainment. She also contributed as a writer for Revista, an international magazine based in Ghana.

Owumi’s death adds to the string of losses in the Nigerian entertainment industry in 2024, a year that has already seen the passing of several Nollywood icons, including Mr. Ibu, Amaechi Muonagor, and Junior Pope. The industry has also mourned the loss of other notable figures such as Sisi Quadri, Ganiyu ‘Ogunjimi‘ Oyeyemi, and Adejumoke Aderounmu.