London, March 24, 2025 – The UK government has released an updated list of unclaimed estates, including those belonging to 58 deceased Nigerians, urging their relatives to come forward and claim the properties. These estates, categorized as “Bona Vacantia” (ownerless property), have remained unclaimed for years. Under UK law, such estates become property of the Crown if no heirs are identified.
According to official records, a total of 5,806 people from different nationalities have passed away in the UK without next of kin claiming their assets. The updated list, published by the UK Bona Vacantia Division, includes names, birth and death dates, and places of passing. Among the 58 Nigerians on the list are notable names such as Akanni Jeremiah Adejumo, Solomon Adekanmibi, Victor Adedapo Olufemi Fani-Kayode, and John Olaolu Bankole. These individuals died in various locations across the UK, with no known relatives stepping forward to claim their estates.
Despite previous publications of unclaimed estates, no relatives have yet come forward to claim the assets of these deceased Nigerians. This has raised concerns that many families may be unaware of their relatives’ passing or the inheritance that could rightfully belong to them. If no legal heirs claim these estates within a set period, the assets will be permanently absorbed by the UK government.
Relatives who believe they may have a claim must provide legal proof of kinship to the deceased. This could include birth certificates, marriage records, or other legal documentation linking them to the deceased person. Claims must be submitted through the UK Bona Vacantia Division website (gov.uk). Legal experts advise that the process should be initiated as soon as possible, as delays could result in the assets becoming permanently unavailable.
With millions of Nigerians having lived, worked, and passed away in the UK, legal experts and community leaders are urging families to check the list and take action. This may be the last opportunity for relatives to reclaim what is rightfully theirs.
For more information, visit gov.uk and search for “Bona Vacantia Unclaimed Estates.” Families who suspect they have a deceased relative on the list are advised to seek legal assistance in processing their claims before it is too late.
