Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi, a Nigerian TikTok content moderator, was found dead in Kenya, raising concerns about workplace culture and mental health support. Reportedly frustrated by denied leave requests, the case highlights issues in the growing content moderation industry. Details regarding the cause of her death and her family’s search for answers remain ongoing.
The recent death of a Nigerian TikTok content moderator in Kenya has sparked significant concern and inquiry regarding her passing. Larry Madowo, a CNN journalist, reported that Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi was found deceased in her residence near Nairobi on March 7 after not reporting to her workplace, Teleperformance, for three consecutive days.
Reports indicate that Ms. Olubunmi experienced considerable frustration due to repeated denials of leave requests, as she had been unable to visit her family in Nigeria since starting her employment in 2022. This situation raises critical questions about the workplace culture at Teleperformance, which is responsible for moderating content for TikTok in the region.
Madowo further detailed the concerns expressed by her colleagues, stating, “A Nigerian TikTok content moderator was found dead in Kenya. Coworkers claim she had been denied leave several times, but her employer – Teleperformance – denies it.” Additionally, he highlighted the distress of Ms. Olubunmi’s family, who had not seen her since her relocation and are seeking answers regarding her untimely death.
At the time this information was published, the cause of Ms. Olubunmi’s death remained undisclosed. It is worth noting that content moderation companies, particularly those associated with social media platforms, have faced increasing scrutiny for their labor practices in recent years. In 2023, several content moderators for TikTok in Kenya threatened legal action against the parent company, ByteDance, citing inadequate support and counselling after exposure to potentially disturbing content.
The untimely demise of Ladi Anzaki Olubunmi raises significant concerns regarding the mental health and work conditions of content moderators employed by companies like Teleperformance. As details continue to unfold, it remains essential for organizations within the industry to ensure the well-being of their employees, particularly those dealing with challenging content. The case also highlights the urgent need for better labor practices and support mechanisms in the content moderation sector.
Original Source: nairobileo.co.ke
