The Nigerian entertainment scene has once again been plunged into mourning following reports of the death of popular TikTok dancer and influencer, Vivian Chinelo, widely known by her handle Bigbutfitneylo.
Known for her vibrant energy and captivating dance moves, her sudden passing has sparked an outpouring of grief across social media.
Initial rumours suggested that Chinelo died following a cosmetic procedure, specifically a tummy tuck.
However, subsequent reports have offered a different account of her final moments.
According to a post by popular blogger Tattleroonng, Chinelo had been suffering from a hernia for some time and was scheduled for surgery.
Tragically, she reportedly passed away before the operation could be carried out.
The dancer first rose to fame after her viral dance video to Dkokopee’s song caught the attention of the artist, who was so moved by her performance that he gifted her ₦250,000 in appreciation.
From there, Chinelo became a beloved figure on TikTok, celebrated for her infectious passion and fearless self-expression.
Her death adds to a string of recent losses in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Just weeks earlier, veteran Nollywood actor Tom Njemanze died following a battle with prostate cancer. Before his passing, fellow actor Stanley Ontop had pleaded with the industry to rally around him for financial support.
In another heartbreaking incident, filmmaker Rotimi Raji reportedly slumped and died in his bathroom earlier in the year.
Following news of Chinelo’s passing, fans and followers have taken to social media to express their sorrow and share memories of the dancer.
One user, @precious_ibini, expressed disbelief, saying, “Please I don’t want to believe this, with all the bullying online.”
Another commenter, @anibeel, questioned the early reports linking her death to cosmetic surgery and pointed out a likely health issue “I don’t think it was a tummy tuck procedure tho. I used to see a lot of her videos and the protruding stomach looked more like a fibroid issue, and according to what I heard she was literally due for an operation. Rest well ma.”
Reacting with concern over her physical transformation journey, @alaye_ng shared, “You for just lose weight the normal way na. Why couldn’t she just exercise and get rid of the belle fat?”
Paying tribute to her talent, @Greg fourtwenty said, “Omg I knew this woman, she was really good at dancing… God. So sad.”
Adding an emotional perspective, @MarianVictor18 hinted at the impact of cyberbullying on her decision-making, “The people that bullied her made her do this. Hope they’re happy.”
Lastly, a visibly heartbroken @hannabel_h shared a short but heavy tribute in a video, “This one pain me.”
As of now, the hospital reportedly involved in Chinelo’s treatment has not issued an official statement, and efforts to confirm the circumstances of her death through formal channels remain inconclusive.
In the meantime, fans continue to mourn a vibrant soul gone too soon, remembering her for the joy she brought through her dance, and the strength she showed despite online scrutiny.