The deputy Bursar of Kwara state University (KWASU) Malete, Alhaji Ayuba Olaitan Abdullahi, lost his life while watching the semi-final match between Nigeria and South Africa, on Wednesday night.
It was gathered that the deceased died at a local viewing centre close to his residence in Sango, Ilọrin East local government area of the state,
He reportedly left the viewing centre after the match went into extra time.
“The deputy Bursar watched the Nigeria/South Africa match from the beginning till the end of the extra time. When it was time for the penalty kicks, he complained that he was feeling dizzy and needed to go back home and rest.”
“But on getting home, he collapsed and he was rushed to a local private hospital in the area in a suspected Bp rise. He was however referred to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH).
“However, he died before he could be attended to,” a source said, adding that he had since been buried according to Islamic rites.
The Director of Information, KWASU, Dr Saedat Aliyu, confirmed his death but added that the cause was yet to be ascertained by the management of the University.
“Yes, he died last night. He was hale and hearty and was full of life on Wednesday at his office. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljanah Firdaus” she said.
She however later issued a statement later.
“Janazah will hold this morning, and his remains will be interred at the Hausa Muslim cemetery, Apata Yakuba, Oyun area, Ilorin, at 9 am.
“May Allah forgive all his sins and grant him Aljannah firdaus. Aameen.”
Daily Trust reports that the death of Abdullahi adds to the list of casualties from the Nigeria/South Africa match,
Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, former Executive Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and a corps member in Adamwa State, were among those who died during the match.
Nigeria won the tension-soaked match by 4 goals to 2 on penalties after it ended 1-1 draw in a dramatic fashion.
The referee had cancelled Nigeria’s second goal and awarded a penalty to the opponent after a VAR check.