Friends of the late Nigerian content creator Esther Thomas, popularly known as Sunshine, are facing difficulties in laying her to rest due to conflicts with her extended family.

In a video circulating online, close friends including Chidera Madu recounted their struggles to reach Sunshine’s relatives. Despite repeated attempts and promises from the family, no one had come forward to claim her body.

Sunshine’s only brother, who is currently in prison, reportedly granted permission for her burial in the absence of other family members. Concerned about potential financial barriers, the friends also took the step of publicly raising funds to ensure the burial could proceed.

The friends shared voice notes of their conversations with Sunshine’s relatives and addressed online speculation that they lived with her, clarifying that they did not. Sunshine, who resided in Lagos State, passed away a week ago following complications from fibroid surgery at a private hospital.

Their actions have sparked mixed reactions online, with some accusing them of exploiting Sunshine’s death, while others expressed support and offered advice on handling the situation.

This incident comes amid a year marked by several tragic losses in Nigeria, including the deaths of singer Destiny Boy and the son of veteran musician Panam Percy Paul.