Oluwafemi Ayo-Owolawi, a 31-year-old graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, has sadly passed away following a prolonged and courageous battle with renal cancer. His passing has left his family, friends, and well-wishers deeply heartbroken as they mourn the loss of a young man who fought tirelessly against the illness.
His death was officially announced on Saturday by Lagos-based public analyst Yinka Ogunnubi via X (formerly Twitter), where he shared the tragic news with the public. The announcement was met with an outpouring of grief, prayers, and tributes from those who had followed Femi’s journey and supported his fight against cancer.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the unfortunate passing of Oluwafemi Ayomide Ayo-Owolawi. Femi has gone to be with the Lord and will be buried today. His family wishes to express their profound thanks and gratitude to all those who contributed towards his cancer treatment. You all gave Femi a fighting chance,” Ogunnubi wrote in his heartfelt tribute.
He continued, “Femi fought, he did. Even in death, he was smiling. We thank God for his life and the impact he made while he was still with us. May God console his family, may God strengthen his mum, and may Femi’s soul find eternal rest. RIP Champion!”
In 2024, seeing the urgent need for financial assistance to cover the cost of Femi’s treatment, Yinka Ogunnubi and Ayomide Adebanjo launched a crowdfunding campaign on GoFundMe to raise funds for his medical care. Their goal was to secure N12 million to cover his surgery, chemotherapy, and other medical expenses. With the support of compassionate donors, the campaign managed to raise N9.5 million, of which N9.4 million was used to fund his surgery and multiple chemotherapy sessions.
Femi underwent his initial surgery in May 2024, a critical step in his treatment plan. However, oncologists advised that he undergo 12 cycles of chemotherapy to further combat the aggressive cancer. Despite completing several rounds of treatment, his health continued to deteriorate, and ultimately, he succumbed to the illness, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and bravery.
His passing has deeply saddened many who followed his journey and supported him throughout his battle. Friends, family members, and supporters have taken to social media to pay tribute to the young man who fought with unwavering determination. Many described him as a fighter, a source of inspiration, and a person whose strength touched the lives of many.
As his family prepares to lay him to rest, they have expressed their profound appreciation to all those who contributed financially, emotionally, and spiritually during Femi’s fight against cancer. While his passing is a great loss, his courage and determination remain an inspiration to all who knew him.
May his soul rest in eternal peace. Rest in power, Femi.