Abuja, Nigeria – February 2, 2026 – Nigerian singer Ifunanya Nwangene, popularly known as Nanyah, has tragically died after being bitten by a cobra inside her Abuja residence. Authorities later discovered two snakes inside her home, raising concerns about residential safety and emergency healthcare readiness.
According to eyewitnesses and friends, the 26-year-old artist was asleep in her bedroom on Saturday, January 31, when she suddenly felt a sharp pain from the bite. She immediately sought medical help, reportedly arranging her own transport to a nearby hospital while remaining conscious enough to inform friends of the situation.
Nwangene first visited a clinic in Lugbe but was reportedly informed that the necessary antivenom was unavailable. She then traveled to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Jabi, where she received emergency care. Friends have indicated that the hospital had only one dose of the antivenom, and attempts to procure a second dose were unsuccessful before she passed away. The FMC, however, released an official statement asserting that staff responded promptly and that her death was due to the rapid neurotoxic effects of the venom despite emergency interventions.
Following the incident, snake handlers discovered two venomous snakes inside her home, including the one responsible for the bite. Social media videos and witness reports confirmed the snakes were cobras, highlighting the unusual and dangerous circumstances within the residence.
Ifunanya Nwangene was a rising star who gained national attention after appearing on The Voice Nigeria (Season 3). Known for her soprano range and blend of jazz, opera, and soul, she was also a trained architect. She had been preparing for her first solo concert and was active in music collaborations at the time of her death.
The singer’s death has prompted widespread grief across Nigeria’s music community, with fans and colleagues expressing sorrow over the loss of a talented young artist. The incident has also sparked public discussion regarding the availability of antivenom and emergency care in Nigerian hospitals.
NIM
