Francisca Owumi, a notable figure from the first season of Big Brother Nigeria (BBNaija) in 2006, has passed away.
Her family confirmed the news on her Instagram account, posting: “A daughter and sister. May her soul rest in peace, Amen.”
The announcement did not specify the date of her passing, but it was reported that Owumi died following a brief illness.
Owumi gained fame as the first runner-up in the inaugural season of BBNaija, where her energetic dance moves and lively personality made her a fan favourite.
She competed alongside contestants such as Katung Aduwak, the season’s winner, as well as Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Gideon Okeke, Maureen Osuji, Ify Ejikeme, and the late Joseph Ada.
After her stint on reality TV, Owumi dabbled in the Nigerian music industry. In 2012, she released two singles, “Gbadun You” and “Diva,” under her own label, Cisca Entertainment. Beyond entertainment, she was also a writer for *Revista*, an international magazine based in Ghana.
Her passing comes amid a series of losses in Nollywood this year. Since January 2024, the industry has mourned the deaths of several celebrities, including Mr Ibu, Amaechi Muonagor, Junior Pope, Sisi Quadri, and Ganiyu ‘Ogunjimi‘ Oyeyemi.
Other notable figures such as Olofa Ina, Adejumoke Aderounmu, Saratu Gidado, Reginald Ebere, and Ethel Ekpe have also recently passed away.
