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A 51-year-old Nigerian lecturer and researcher at the University of Fort Hare, Ayodele Odularu, has been found dead at her residence in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province.
Odularu died on August 16, according to her brother, Gbadebo Odularu.
The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, with a family member saying the family does not believe she died of natural causes and has called for an investigation.
In a GoFundMe statement issued by Gbadebo on behalf of the family, Odularu was described as a scholar who dedicated her life to research, community service and the advancement of knowledge.
The family said she was a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend, mentor and scholar who was known for her kindness, generosity and resilience.
According to the statement, Odularu served as an independent senior researcher within the University of Fort Hare community, contributing to academic research and knowledge development.
The University of Fort Hare held a memorial service in her honour on Thursday.
Her death comes amid concerns over reported attacks targeting Nigerians and other African nationals in parts of South Africa.
The Federal Government has, since June, facilitated the evacuation of Nigerians from South Africa following reports of xenophobic attacks, with 1,716 Nigerians reportedly evacuated as part of the response.
The circumstances surrounding Odularu’s death have yet to be established, while her family continues to seek an investigation into the incident.
