A wave of sorrow has swept through social media following the tragic death of Osarugbe, a 23-year-old Nigerian woman who passed away in Libya on Friday, April 4, 2025, at approximately 11:33 a.m., after a prolonged illness.
Osarugbe’s heartbreaking story was brought to light by anti-human trafficking advocate Yakubu Oyiza, who, along with her team, had been tirelessly campaigning to raise funds to bring the young woman back to Nigeria for proper medical care after hospitals in Libya refused to treat her.
Oyiza disclosed that despite their efforts, Osarugbe died before she could be flown back. According to her, all arrangements for burial in Libya—including documentation, autopsy, and securing burial land—have been made, costing around ₦350,000.
What has added further pain to the tragedy is Oyiza’s claim that Osarugbe’s family abandoned her during her time of need. She alleged that the family refused to travel to Kano to receive her when a rescue plan had been arranged.
“Since yesterday that I called Osa’s family and told them their sister passed, they haven’t called me back to ask how far,” Oyiza wrote in a Facebook post on Saturday, April 5.
She also expressed shock that instead of mourning their loss or checking on burial plans, certain family members were already calling to demand Osarugbe’s belongings.
“We sent ₦350k for her burial (to Libya) which they are still asking for more, but guess what? Osas’ family is calling us for her properties. They want her properties, we haven’t laid this girl to rest but they are making trouble with us,” she lamented.
Oyiza described the situation as “devastating” and used the opportunity to highlight the grim realities many young Nigerian women face abroad, especially those who migrate in search of better opportunities but end up in distressing circumstances.
“Most of these young girls that run to Libya have something chasing them. I am devastated,” she added.
