A final-year student of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike in Abia State, Nwachukwu Omiko, tragically died after he slumped and died while playing football on the university’s pitch on Wednesday.
Omiko, a student of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, was said to be participating in a casual football match with fellow students when he suddenly collapsed.
It was gathered that efforts by his friends to revive him on the spot were unsuccessful.
He was, however, said to have been immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, but was confirmed dead on arrival by the medical personnel.
The institution’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Ubadire Agua, in a statement, disclosed that the university expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
Agua also described it as a “painful loss” despite efforts to save the young man’s life.
“The Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, extends the deep regrets and condolences of the university to the parents and family of Mr Omiko, as well as his colleagues in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology,” the statement read.
The university management also urged all students to undergo health checks at the institution’s health services upon resumption, and to refrain from strenuous activities, especially if they have known medical conditions.
It was reported in January that the Osun State Police Command confirmed the death of one Adeyemi Adewale while participating in a football competition in Osogbo, the state capital.
The deceased said to be a player of the Ilesa West Local Government Area football team, reportedly slumped on the field and was rushed to a hospital.
It was further learnt that, at the hospital where he was rushed, a doctor confirmed him dead.