Nigerian in New Zealand Reveals Kola Onifoto's Japa Plan Before Fatal Lagos Crash
A Nigerian man residing in New Zealand has come forward to disclose the relocation aspirations of the late biker Orowale Kolapo, widely known as Kola Onifoto, prior to his untimely death in a motorcycle accident in Lagos. The revelation was made in a poignant Facebook tribute that has since garnered significant attention across social media platforms.
Details of the Japa Plan
Dozie Francis Okpaleke, also referred to as The Loaded Man, shared that Onifoto reached out to him in February to discuss his plans to leave Nigeria, commonly termed a japa plan. According to Okpaleke, their conversation lasted precisely 22 minutes and 22 seconds via a WhatsApp call. During this exchange, Onifoto expressed his desire to relocate to New Zealand, citing unsuccessful attempts to move to other countries as his primary motivation.
Okpaleke recounted, "Last month, Kola Onifoto reached out to me to discuss his Japa plans. He said he wanted to try New Zealand because other Japa destinations have failed him. It was the first time I would speak with him. Our conversation lasted 22 minutes, 22 seconds on a WhatsApp call."
Tragic Circumstances of Onifoto's Death
Kola Onifoto, a 36-year-old former military man who had recently fulfilled his lifelong dream of biking, tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident in Lagos. The incident occurred on Sunday, March 1, with conflicting reports suggesting he died either on the spot or the following day after being rushed to the emergency unit of the Federal Road Safety Corps at 7UP, Ojota, and subsequently to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba.
Okpaleke expressed deep sorrow over the news, stating, "Today, hearing that he is no more with us, rattled me to my very core and reminds me of how fickle life is." He urged friends and followers to honor Onifoto's memory by commenting "Fly Kola Fly" instead of the traditional RIP, hoping to give him wings as he soars beyond this realm.
Social Media Reactions and Tributes
The tribute post sparked an outpouring of condolences and reflections from Nigerians across the globe. Many shared personal anecdotes and expressed shock at the sudden loss of a vibrant individual known for his originality and unique presence on social media.
- Ose Apparels commented, "I came across his profile about 2 years ago. Something drew me closer and I followed his page. Whenever I saw his posts I never saw performances, I saw originality and uniqueness. Fly high fly Kola Onifoto."
- Rosemary Odiatu reflected on life's unpredictability, emphasizing the importance of taking charge of one's decisions with divine guidance.
- Richard Joe noted, "If you study people well. You would realize this guy needed help as much as he helped people. There was a Silent depressive condition hidden somewhere."
- Nwachukwu Mmesoma Helen recalled encouraging Onifoto in his previous posts about his failed relocation attempts, expressing surprise at how life had taken an unexpected turn.
Related Developments
In the wake of his passing, a scary video that Onifoto had shared days before his death went viral, further highlighting the shock and grief felt by many. Additionally, a WhatsApp chat between Onifoto and his mother, in which she expressed concerns about his safety prior to the accident, resurfaced online, adding to the emotional weight of the tragedy.
Onifoto was involved in the crash while embarking on what he described as his first solo motorcycle trip outside Lagos. Friends later confirmed on Facebook that he had been initially taken to the emergency unit of the Federal Road Safety Corps before being transferred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
This story underscores the broader narrative of Nigerian youths seeking opportunities abroad, often referred to as the japa phenomenon, while also shedding light on the personal dreams and aspirations cut short by unforeseen circumstances. The heartfelt tribute from Dozie Francis Okpaleke serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of community support in times of loss.
