Nigerian football struck by tragedy as Nasarawa defender dies

Monday Mar 09, 2020. 12:00

Nigerian football has suffered a heartbreaking tragedy following the death of Nasarawa United player Chineme Martins.

According to a report from Nigeria’s This Day, Martins collapsed after a collision with a Katsina United player.

He was attended to be medics from both clubs and rushed to Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital in Lafia, where he was later pronounced dead.

Shehu Dikko, the chairman of the League Management Company [LMC] which organises the Nigeria Professional Football League [NPFL] said they deeply regret the passing of the player.

“We commiserate with Nasarawa United and the immediate family of the late player,” Dikko said.

A statement from the LMC added: “It is hoped that the findings of the autopsy would inform subsequent measures, if any that has not been addressed by the existing standard procedure”, the LMC stated.

According to Score Nigeria, the medical response to Martins’ collapse was slow and inadequate.

“It’s terrible. We’re all in shock,” said Nasarawa United spokesman Eche Amos.

“He was hale and hearty, hence his selection for the match. His body is now in the mortuary.”

Nasarawa won the game 3-0, but their players were left inconsolable after learning of the passing of their teammate.