Thanks to the core concept of The Voice, it is a reality show franchise that routinely features talented young singers who seem poised to have impressive careers. Unfortunately, one former contestant had her rising career cut short after she were bitten by a snake while sleeping and later died.
‘The Voice Nigeria’ Singer Ifunanya Nwangene Has Died at 26 After a Deadly Snake Bite
On February 1, 2026, the BBC reported on the sudden and tragic death of The Voice Nigeria competitor Ifunanya Nwangene at 26 years old. The young singer, who went by Nanyah professionally, reportedly passed away after being bitten by a snake as she slept. According to the outlet, social media shows a snake being removed from the singer’s home as someone exclaimed, “It is a cobra!” The BBC spoke to her friend Hillary Obinna, who said of Nwangene, “the snake bite woke her up.”
After the bite, Nwangene was rushed to a nearby clinic, but they lacked antivenom. She was then transferred to a hospital, where conflicting accounts of what happened next emerged. A friend who founded the Amemuso Choir she performed in, told the BBC that the hospital only had one of the two required antivenoms for proper treatment. However, the BBC quoted a hospital statement denying that was the case.
“Our medical staff provided immediate and appropriate treatment, including resuscitation efforts, intravenous fluids, intranasal oxygen, and the administration of polyvalent snake antivenom… We stand by the quality of care and dedication our team demonstrates daily.” The hospital also told the outlet that Nwangene suffered severe complications from the snake’s venom, and they were “unable to revive her.”
Nwangene’s friend, Ezugwu, called her a “rising star,” and noted that she was planning her first solo concert for later this year. He described what happened after he rushed to the hospital and saw she was struggling. “While they were trying to stabilise her, she could not speak, but she could make hand gestures. She was struggling to breathe.” He also told the outlet that he’d personally drove to try to obtain antivenom himself, but she had passed away by the time he returned.
Ifunanya Nwangene’s Death Caused an Outpouring of Grief and Anger on Social Media
Ifunanya Nwangene had a life that was full and exciting. She graduated from the University of Nigeria Nsukka with a degree in Architecture and settled into a busy life in Abuja. Her soprano voice captured millions all over social media with her rendition of the Champions League. pic.twitter.com/9HL48mETc7
— Ella Of Benue 🇳🇬🇧🇪 (@AdekaElla57286) February 1, 2026
After the death of Ifunanya Nwangene, many of the social media responses focused on anger at her not being able to receive antivenom immediately after the bite. There was also an outpouring of sadness on social media. A post from the X account @Romeoisred is one example of people expressing their sorrow at the passing while also celebrating the impact the singer left behind.
“Ifunanya Nwangene’s voice carried emotion and soul that many instantly connected with. Even in her short journey, she inspired upcoming artists and touched countless listeners with her music and authenticity. Her tragic passing from a cobra bite was heartbreaking, but her voice and impact will never be forgotten. #IfunanyaNwangene #NanyahMusic #RisingStar #GoneTooSoon #MusicLegacy #ForeverRemembered #RIP”
Our thoughts are with Ifunanya Nwangene’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
