Family demands answers as Nigerian lecturer found dead in South Africa

By Anuoluwa Amao

The family of a Nigerian lecturer found dead at her residence in South Africa is calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.

Dr Ayodele Temidayo Odularu, 51, an Independent Senior Researcher at the University of Fort Hare in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province, died on August 16, 2026.

Her brother, Dr Gbadebo Odularu, confirmed her death to Diaspora Tales on Wednesday, more than a month after she died, following the launch of a GoFundMe campaign to support the family.

A family member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said Odularu’s death was not believed to have resulted from natural causes but stressed that the exact circumstances remained unclear.

The family is now seeking a formal investigation to establish what happened.

The family said it had initially withheld news of her death while seeking greater clarity on the circumstances surrounding it.

In a statement accompanying the fundraising campaign, the family described Odularu as more than a sister, remembering her as a daughter, aunt, friend, mentor and scholar whose kindness and commitment to others extended beyond her academic work.

Odularu had an established academic career at the University of Fort Hare, where her research included chemistry, education and issues surrounding access to knowledge and opportunities for underserved communities. University records and academic publications also identify her as a researcher at the institution.

The University of Fort Hare held a memorial service for Odularu on Thursday, with tributes highlighting her contribution to the academic community and her wider commitment to research and social development.

For now, the circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, with her family seeking answers through an investigation.