On October 13, 2022, former Big Brother Naija housemate Rico Swavey recently passed away at the age of 29 after meeting with an accident a few days ago. Tobi Bakre and Sandra Alexandra, who also participated in BB Naija, announced the news on Twitter. Tobi wrote:
“This is how I will always remember you. Rest in Peace, my Brother.”
Sandra also expressed her sorrow at the untimely death of Swavey in a tweet that stated:
“This was not what we agreed Rico. Rest In Peace #ricoswavey.”
Rico Swavey’s cause of death explored
On Tuesday, October 11, Rico Swavey died after being met with a motor accident. He went into a coma following the incident, after which Nigerian entertainers launched a fundraiser for him to get some financial help for his treatment.
While requesting donations on social media, Tobi Bakre disclosed that Swavey was on life support. The news was also confirmed by Swavey’s management and they shared a video that featured the crashed car. Tobi wrote on Twitter:
“Please help save Rico. He had a really bad car accident. We have to keep him on life support and continue to pay the rising medical bills while we pray for God’s miracle. (We) can’t do it alone. Please click on the link to donate at ricoswavey.com.”
Sandra Alexandra revealed the news of Swavey’s accident on Twitter and wrote on her Instagram Story that he is in critical condition and needs everyone’s financial assistance and prayers. She continued:
"I also wish I could give more information on his health but how can I when we are still waiting for the doctors and God to save this dear life or at least get a sign or response from Rico? Whatever you can do to support will be highly appreciated as he is on life support and fighting for his life. Please @ricoswavey_official needs our help #ricoswavey #prayforricoswavey"
Netizens pay tribute on Twitter
Rico Swavey gained recognition in recent years for his appearance on Big Brother Naija. However, with the news of his untimely death, Twitter was flooded with tributes from fans and admirers alike:
Swavey is survived by his family members. He never revealed anything about his personal life, and there is no information on whether he was married or dating someone.
Everything known about Rico Swavey
Also known as Patrick Fakoya, he was born in 1992 and studied law at Babcock University. He had seven siblings and was an expert in singing and swimming.
Swavey entered the world of music before coming to Big Brother. Moreover, he also starred in a few movies. He released a single titled Afrosantana and appeared in the movie Tinsel followed by the drama series Life 101.
While participating in Big Brother Naija, he was asked what he plans to do if he gets a million dollars, to which Swavey replied by stating that he would be in a big house to catch waves. He joined Big Brother Naija on January 28, 2018, and unveiled that cooking was his way of expression as he cooked the most for the housemates.
Rico Swavey was eliminated from the show after 10 weeks and 70 days. Following the elimination, he revealed that he liked one of the housemates, Ahneeka. He participated in the show to help his cousin who was suffering from autism and invest in his music career.