Nigerians in the UK launch GoFundMe campaign for families of Covid-19 victims as casualties mount

NIGERIANS in the UK have launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for some of the recent victims of the coronavirus pandemic that has been merciless in the way it has devastated the disapora community.

In Nigeria itself, the pandemic has not been too vicious as it has only afflicted 238 people with five fatalities so far. In the UK, however, the virus has been particularly virulent among the ethnic minority population as although they only make up 13% of the populace, they account for about a third of all Copvid-19 casualties.

According to a report, by Britain's Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre, 14% of Covid-19 victims were Asian, 14% were black and 7% described themselves as other ethnic minorities. Over the last week, the Nigerian disapora community lost Carol Jamabo and Chidinma Olajide, as well as medical doctor  Dr Alfa Sa’adu and food store owner Adeola Onasanya.

Within the last seven days, the casualties have mounted further, with the community losing mental health practitioner Olabode Ajanlekoko, Ugochukwu Erondu and bus driver Emeka Ihenacho. To help the families of the deceased, well-meaning Nigerians have launched a GoFundMe site for some of the victims.

Mr Ajanlekoko, who until his death was a frontline mental health practitioner working tirelessly against the pandemic, was described as a very hard working, dedicated, diligent, compassionate individual and a lover of humanity.  He was a family man, a husband and father of three beautiful children.

Aged 53, he was known very well for his charitable attributes and who will go to any length to help a fellow brother or sister. Olukayode Majekodunmi, who launched the GoFundMe campaign on his behalf, said: "We are hoping to continue the legacy this wonderful man has left behind by ensuring that this children who are in their formative years are not left in the wilderness."

Mr Erondu for his part was only 34 years old., while Mr Ihenacho, a driver working for bus company Metroline, is thought to have contracted the virus from passengers.  A Metroline spokesman said: “It is with immense sadness that we can confirm that three of our colleagues have passed away after contracting coronavirus.

“We are devastated by this loss and we offer our support and condolences to the families at this incredibly difficult time. The safety of our employees has always been our priority and we continue to do everything we can to make sure our workforce is as protected and as safe as possible during this unprecedented time.”

Across the UK, the total number of people who have contracted coronavirus is 51,608, the eighth highest in the world. Of that figure, 5,373 have died from the virus, the fifth highest number of casualties worldwide.