Haunted by the fear of road accidents and kidnappings, Grace Afangideh chose what she believed was the safest option—air travel. But fate had other plans.
The 25-year-old, full of dreams and determination, boarded a flight to Enugu, planning to complete the last leg of her journey to the NYSC orientation camp in Ebonyi State by road. Tragically, she never made it.
A Promising Future Cut Short
Grace was more than just another corps member—she was the pride of her hardworking parents, their beacon of hope. After gaining admission to the University of Calabar in 2019 to study English and Literary Studies, she dedicated herself to academic excellence, determined to give her family a better life.
Graduating with good grades, she looked forward to her NYSC service year as the first step toward achieving her dreams. When she received her call-up letter to Ebonyi State, excitement filled her home. She was ready to work hard and support her parents.
A Journey of No Return
To avoid the dangers of road travel, Grace flew from Lagos to Enugu on January 22, 2025. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, she had no choice but to continue her journey by road.
Unbeknownst to her, the very danger she feared was waiting ahead.
She boarded an Enugu North Mass Transit bus with other corps members, unaware that just 30 minutes into the journey, tragedy would strike.
The bus collided with another vehicle, and Grace died on the spot.
Family Devastated: ‘She Was Our Hope’
Her father, Mr. Camillus Afangideh, struggled to hold back tears as he recalled his daughter’s dreams.
“She always feared road accidents and kidnappings. She never imagined her worst fear would take her life,” he said.
Her mother, Rosemary Afangideh, shared the heartbreaking last memory of Grace.
“She called me when she landed in Enugu, but I missed the call because I was teaching. That was my last chance to hear her voice.”
Hours later, when she tried to call back, Grace’s phone was unreachable. Panic set in. By evening, the devastating news arrived—Grace was gone.
Haunting Goodbyes: ‘She Kept Visiting Us in Our Dreams’
Even after her death, Grace’s siblings dreamed of her, insisting she was still alive.
“In one dream, her sister asked for her phone password, but Grace refused. She said revealing it would mean she had truly died,” her mother revealed.
In her final visit, Grace stood by the window instead of entering the house. It was a silent goodbye.
NYSC Promises Death Benefits
Following her burial on January 30, 2025, the NYSC has only provided her death certificate, with promises to process her benefits.
Her tragic death has left many questioning the safety of corps members and the risks associated with road travel in Nigeria.
Would Grace still be alive if she had another choice?
Her story is a painful reminder of the dangers on Nigerian roads and the fate that sometimes cannot be escaped.
Source: Punch