Nigerians resident in Norwich, United Kingdom, have begun a fundraising campaign to repatriate the body of a Nigerian student, Uchenna Okirie, popularly known as “Common Man,” who was killed in his apartment in November 2025.
Okirie was stabbed to death in what members of the Nigerian community described as a shocking incident that has left friends and associates devastated. A 27-year-old Congolese national, identified as Benjamin Katabana, has since been charged by British authorities in connection with the killing.
To facilitate the return of the deceased’s remains to Nigeria for burial, the Nigerian Community Norwich launched a GoFundMe appeal titled, “Rest in Peace, Uche: Help Us Return Him to His Family.”
As of Wednesday, the campaign had raised £1,149 from 67 donors, out of a £7,000 target set to cover repatriation and funeral expenses.
In the appeal, the organisers described Okirie as a kind-hearted and selfless individual whose life was devoted to supporting others, noting that his death had created a deep void within the community.
They disclosed that Okirie completed a Master’s degree in Development Economics at the University of East Anglia during the 2021/2022 academic session, where he also served as an international student ambassador.
According to the group, he was widely recognised for assisting newly arrived international students, often offering accommodation, guidance and practical support to help them settle into life in the UK.
The organisers said Okirie was known for his calm disposition, honesty and willingness to prioritise the needs of others, qualities that endeared him to many friends, classmates and colleagues.
They added that the funds raised would be used to transport his body to Nigeria and make funeral arrangements, noting that the deceased had no immediate family members in the UK.
The community appealed for continued support, stressing that every donation would help ensure Okirie received a dignified farewell in his homeland.
