Many Nigerians and other Africans who passed away in the United Kingdom without leaving wills or identifying next of kin now have their assets at risk of being permanently lost to the British government. The UK’s latest list of unclaimed estates includes over 170 entries linked to African-born individuals, with Nigerians making up a significant portion.
For many migrants, the UK became a second home where they built wealth and established lives. However, without a will, their assets are classified as “bona vacantia” (ownerless property) and fall under the Crown’s control. Families back in Africa are often unaware of these estates, leading to a permanent loss of inheritance.
Cases such as those of Adenike Adebiyi, who passed away in Hackney, London, in 2004, and Solomon Adekanmibi, who died in Colchester, Essex, in 2021, highlight the consequences of dying intestate. Without documented heirs, their estates remain unclaimed, and their legacies risk being erased.
Many African families are unaware of their relatives’ financial situations abroad, often due to migration disrupting communication. Official records frequently lack detailed family history, making it difficult to trace beneficiaries. Cultural hesitations surrounding discussions of death and estate planning further complicate the situation.
Legal experts and community organizations emphasize the need for increased awareness about estate planning among African migrants. Writing wills, tracing unclaimed estates, and running awareness campaigns could help prevent permanent loss.
The UK government maintains a public Unclaimed Estates List, updated daily, where families can search for potential claims. For many, these estates represent more than just wealth—they hold stories of migration, resilience, and identity.
