Google has released a report revealing the ten most searched deaths of 2024, with actors Junior Pope, Mr. Ibu, and businessman Herbert Wigwe topping the list.
Junior Pope, the most searched death of the year, tragically passed away in April following a boat accident while en route to River Niger in Anambra State to shoot a film in Asaba.
Three crew members also died in the incident.
Despite initial reports from the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) declaring Pope alive, after videos of villagers trying to revive him circulated online, he was later officially confirmed dead.
Second on the list was John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu.
The 62-year-old actor, renowned for his comedic genius, died on 2 March 2024, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances. His sudden passing sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans nationwide.
Herbert Wigwe, the influential banker and philanthropist, ranked third. He died on 9 February 2024, leaving a significant gap in Nigeria’s financial sector. His unexpected death sparked widespread curiosity about the circumstances surrounding it.
Other notable figures on the list include Sisi Quadri, the beloved Yoruba actor who died on 1 March 2024, and Ifeanyi Ubah, the businessman and politician who passed away on 27 July 2024 in London following a cardiac arrest.
Gospel minister Aduke Gold also made the list after her sudden death on 12 August 2024 at the age of 34.
Veteran musician Onyeka Onwenu, aged 72, died on 30 July 2024 after collapsing during a performance in Lagos, while Nollywood actor Amaechi Muonagor, 62, passed away on 24 March 2024 from kidney failure.
International pop star Liam Payne, who died on 16 October 2024, and Islamic singer Rukayat Gawat, who passed away on 24 September 2024, rounded out the top ten.
