Nigerian scholar found dead in South Africa

A Nigerian academic at the University of Fort Hare, South Africa, Dr Ayodele Temidayo Odularu, has been found dead at her residence in the Eastern Cape Province.

Odularu, 51, reportedly died on August 16, 2026, with her family calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.

Her brother, Dr Gbadebo Odularu, disclosed her death to Diaspora Tales on Wednesday following the launch of a GoFundMe campaign in her memory.

A family member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the death was not believed to have been from natural causes, but added that the circumstances remained unclear.

The family said it was seeking answers over what happened to the scholar and wanted the circumstances surrounding her death properly investigated.

Describing her as a cherished sister, daughter, aunt, friend, mentor and scholar, the family said Odularu was known for her kindness, generosity and commitment to helping others.

“With hearts filled with gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Dr Ayodele Temidayo Odularu, who departed this world at the age of 51,” the family said in the GoFundMe statement.

“Dr Ayodele was far more than a sister. She was a cherished daughter, aunt, friend, mentor, scholar, and a source of encouragement, compassion, wisdom, and strength to everyone blessed to know her.”

The family said her warmth, resilience and willingness to support others left a lasting impression on those who knew her.

Odularu was an Independent Senior Researcher associated with the University of Fort Hare community, where she contributed to academic research and worked on issues relating to development and community empowerment.

According to the family, her academic work focused on challenges affecting people’s everyday lives, including access to knowledge, educational opportunities and sustainable development.

“Her work reflected a deep commitment to addressing challenges that affect everyday lives, including access to knowledge, educational opportunity, sustainable development, and solutions that empower underserved communities,” the family said.

The University of Fort Hare held a memorial service for Odularu on Thursday, where colleagues and members of the university community remembered her contributions and commitment to research.

The family has continued to seek clarification on the circumstances of her death as arrangements to honour her memory proceed.