The family of the deceased US-based Nigerian bodybuilder, Michael Chidozie, has initiated a GoFundMe campaign with the aim of raising $70,000 to repatriate his body to Nigeria for burial.
Chidozie died less than a month after police said his wife shot him multiple times at their apartment in Houston, Texas, United States.
He was shot multiple times by his wife, Keaiirra Shavoiyae Chidozie during an argument between the couple in front of their children in their home in Houston on March 21.
She reportedly took out a handgun and shot the bodybuilder multiple times. He died on April 9, 2024.
Police detained the wife and charged her for the shooting while the children were taken into care by a family member.
However, Ashley C who launched a GoFundMeaccount noted that it was always his dream to return to Nigeria one day and that they were committed to honouring his memory by fulfilling this final wish.
Ashley explained that the family was faced with the daunting task of laying Chidozie to rest in his homeland of Nigeria as well as legal matters that had arisen as a result of his untimely death.
Ashley said the expenses associated with repatriating Chidozie’s remains to Nigeria and organizing a proper funeral service exceed what his lone family member in the United States can manage alone.
Ashley’s message reads, “Dear Friends, Family, and Community, it is with heavy hearts that we come to you today to share the tragic news of the untimely passing of our beloved Chidozie Michael. On March 21st, 2024, Chidozie’s life was abruptly taken from us in a senseless act of violence.
“He was shot four times, sustaining a devastating spinal injury during an argument with his Houston native wife, Keaiirra Shavoiyae, in their own home. The presence of their two young sons, aged 3 and 2, during this horrifying incident has only added to the heartbreak of this situation.
“Chidozie fought courageously for his life, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of April 9th, 2024. His passing has left a profound void in the lives of all who knew and loved him. He was a devoted father, a cherished son, and a dear friend to many. Chidozie’s kind heart, infectious laughter, and unwavering love for his family will forever be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
“As we navigate through this unimaginable loss, we are faced with the daunting task of laying Chidozie to rest in his homeland of Nigeria as well as legal matters that have risen as a result of this untimely passing. It was always his dream to return to Nigeria one day, and we are committed to honoring his memory by fulfilling this final wish.
“However, the expenses associated with repatriating Chidozie’s remains to Nigeria and organizing a proper funeral service exceed what his lone family member here in the United States can manage alone. Therefore, we are reaching out to our community, friends, and anyone touched by Chidozie’s story for support.
“Your generous contributions will directly contribute to covering the costs of transporting Chidozie’s body to Nigeria, arranging a dignified funeral service, legal services needed and providing support to his grieving family during this incredibly difficult time.
“We understand that times are tough for many, but no donation is too small. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a significant difference in honoring Chidozie’s memory and providing closure for his loved ones.
“Let us come together as a community to give Chidozie the farewell he deserves and ensure that his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.”
“Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and unwavering support during this incredibly challenging time,”
it adds.
