A day of celebration at the annual August meeting in Ugwunagbo local government area of Abia State on Monday, August 18, 2025, turned tragic when a popular entertainer, Mrs Nwandinma Dickson, widely known as “Nwayi Garri”, suddenly slumped and died during a performance.
The 65-year-old Dickson, a native of Oza Umuebukwu in Nneji autonomous community, Ugwunagbo LGA, was scheduled to participate in dance and drama at the high-profile event.
Dressed in her performance costume, she moved around different canopies, exchanging greetings and entertaining guests with her usual theatrics.
Unfortunately, in the middle of her display, she stooped briefly and then slumped, making the audience assume that the fall was part of her act and continued cheering, only to realize minutes later that she was unresponsive.
A prompt response came from the Mayor of Ugwunagbo LGA who provided a vehicle to rush her to the hospital, but unfortunately, medical personnel pronounced her dead on arrival.
Family members who spoke to ABN TV, said late Mrs Dickson had initially expressed reluctance to attend the meeting but eventually decided to honor her scheduled performance.
Residents of Ugwunagbo and the larger Abia community who are mourning the loss of “Nwayi Garri,” said she would be remembered for her lively spirit and contributions to local cultural life.
Community sources also told ABN that they are awaiting official report from the relevant authorities about the cause of the ace performer’s death, even as some opined that she may have suddenly experienced blood pressure issues.
