A well-known entertainer, Mrs. Nwandinma Dickson, popularly called “Nwayi Garri,” has died after collapsing during a cultural performance at an August meeting in Ugwunagbo Local Government Area of Abia State.
The 65-year-old woman, who hailed from Oza Umuebukwu in Nneji Autonomous Community, Ugwunagbo, was among those scheduled to entertain participants at the event. The annual August meeting was reportedly organised by the wife of the Abia State governor, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, who was expected to attend as the guest of honour.
Eyewitnesses said the late entertainer, dressed in her performance attire, moved from canopy to canopy, greeting guests and thrilling the audience with her usual dramatic style. However, in the middle of her display, she suddenly bent down and then collapsed.
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According to onlookers, many initially thought her fall was part of the performance. Applause continued until it became clear that she was no longer responding.
“At first, people were clapping, thinking it was part of her drama. But when she could not get up, some persons rushed to her and discovered she was foaming from the mouth,” a source told reporters.
The Mayor of Ugwunagbo LGA was said to have quickly stepped in and used his vehicle to rush her to the hospital. Sadly, medical personnel confirmed her dead on arrival.
Family sources revealed that Mrs. Dickson, before the event, had been reluctant to attend but later changed her mind in order to honour her performance commitment.
The community has been thrown into mourning, as many residents recall her energetic style and long-standing contribution to cultural entertainment in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities are yet to make an official statement on the circumstances of her death.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said no official report had been made to the police. She advised that the matter should be reported at the Ugwunagbo Police Station.
