Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Pierre Antoine
LAGOS, Nigeria — Popular Nigerian documentary photographer, travel enthusiast and social media influencer Kola Onifoto, whose real name was Orowole Samuel Kolapoz, has died following a motorcycle accident in Lagos State, officials and multiple eyewitness reports confirm. The 32-year-old’s death on March 2, 2026, has shocked friends, colleagues and followers across social media, prompting an outpouring of tributes and condolences.
According to several verified news accounts, Onifoto was involved in a lone motorcycle accident on Sunday, March 1, while embarking on what he described as his “first solo ride outside Lagos” — a journey he planned toward Akure, the capital of Ondo State. Hours before the crash, the acclaimed photographer shared a post on his official Facebook page expressing excitement about the trip and celebrating long-distance bikers, especially women, who have traversed the continent on two wheels.
Eyewitnesses and posts circulating on social media describe how the accident occurred in the afternoon as he neared the outskirts of Lagos. One unverified account suggested the collision involved another vehicle making a U-turn, though that detail has not been independently confirmed by authorities nor included in official police reports.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash, and Onifoto was initially taken to the Federal Road Safety Corps emergency unit at 7UP, Ojota. He was subsequently transferred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in Idi-Araba for advanced medical care. Despite efforts by medical staff and an outpouring of prayers and support from well-wishers online, he succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Monday, March 2.
Friends and fans reacted with shock and sorrow on social platforms following confirmation of his death. Tributes flooded Facebook and Twitter, with many describing him as passionate, adventurous, and inspirational. One user reflected on the emotional difficulty of processing the sudden loss of someone who had so recently shared his dreams and ambitions with his audience.
Onifoto had only recently achieved what he described as a lifelong ambition: becoming a biker. In mid-January, he posted photos on X (formerly Twitter) celebrating his new motorcycle and declaring that he would not “fall and die” while fulfilling his dream — words that now resonate poignantly across the internet.
Born Orowole Samuel Kolapoz, the late photographer was known for his documentary work, using his lens to share stories of everyday life and travel experiences across Nigeria. He combined his interest in visual storytelling with travel and biking culture, attracting a loyal audience that admired both his creativity and his adventurous spirit. Colleagues and followers frequently described him as someone who used his platform to advocate for social causes, including support for victims of scams and oppression, in addition to his artistic projects.
Details around the exact cause of the accident remain under investigation — road safety officials and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority have not released formal findings about what led to the crash. The spokesperson for the Lagos Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps did not respond to media inquiries by the time this report was filed.
The tragic incident has also sparked wider discussion among Nigeria’s biking and travel communities about road safety. Long-distance motorcycle travel — particularly solo rides — carries inherent risks due to high traffic volumes, variable road conditions and inadequate emergency response infrastructure on many Nigerian highways. Advocates and riders have since called for increased public awareness of protective gear, riding experience, route planning, and support systems for solo travellers — especially those sharing their journeys publicly.
In addition to his photography and travel content, Onifoto was regarded as a creative voice within the online community. Many users praised his authenticity and willingness to share personal growth experiences, even when tackling challenging subjects like social justice, community issues, and cultural documentation. His sudden passing has underscored the fragility of life and the deep connections forged through digital storytelling.
Friends and followers have since converted his social pages into memorial spaces where supporters leave messages of love, remembrance and reflection. These tributes often highlight how his optimism and creative energy inspired others to pursue their passions.
No official funeral or memorial arrangements had been publicly announced at the time of reporting. Family members are understood to be mourning privately, with many supporters urging respect for the family’s privacy during this difficult period.
As investigations continue and more details about the crash become available, updates are expected from road safety officials and Lagos state authorities. Meanwhile, his passing serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety advocacy and support for travellers, bikers, and content creators across Nigeria.
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