Freetown, Sierra Leone – The nation is in mourning following the sudden death of fashion designer and former Housemate Salone contestant, Victor Onie Williams, who passed away on December 5, 2024.
Williams, who represented Sierra Leone at the 2021 Mr. Africa International in Ivory Coast, was reportedly pronounced dead at Rokupa Government Hospital.
The cause of his death has yet to be officially disclosed, though initial reports suggest it may have been due to a heart attack.
Fellow Sierra Leoneans, including public figures and fans, have expressed shock and grief over his passing, flooding social media with tributes.
“He had an attack and fell to the ground. Yes, we lost Victor Onie Williams,” wrote Salim Sahid Kamara, a former Housemate Salone contestant, on Facebook.
Youth Ambassador Yulisa Amadu expressed his heartbreak in a tribute: “I am heartbroken by the loss of my brother and friend, Victor Onie Williams. This has left me deeply saddened and hurt. Victor was a true gentleman, always radiating happiness with his smile. We will miss you dearly, Onnie.”
Popular blogger Sarah Kallay shared her disbelief: “He is a good breed. Victor Onie Williams 🕊🖤😈. I refuse to believe he has died, and I keep getting calls that he is not dead yet.”
Media personality Rocksylyn Awlyn Findlay also expressed sorrow: “I am extremely saddened by the loss of Victor Onie Williams, a great friend and brother. Grief is indeed the price we pay for love. You have gone from our sights, but never from our hearts. May your soul rest in peace, Victor Onie Williams.”
Blogging page Cotton Tree Talk lamented the loss of young talent in their post: “Victor Onie Williams left home for lectures and he couldn’t return alive. He collapsed on campus and was rushed to the hospital😭😭. It’s really heartbreaking hearing energetic young people with potential are just dying.😭😭😭 May Allah See You Through Brother 🙏💔🕊️.”
Williams, who achieved third place in the 2021 Mr. Africa International pageant, was widely admired for his charm, talent, and contributions to Sierra Leone’s fashion and entertainment industries. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of many.
The nation now awaits further details about the circumstances surrounding his death, as tributes continue to pour in for the beloved figure.