Final-Year MOUAU student dies while playing football

DDM News

A tragic incident has shaken the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Abia State, following the sudden death of a final-year student on campus.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the student, identified as Nwachukwu Omiko, was in his final year in the Department of Mechanical Engineering before his untimely death.

According to eyewitness reports, Omiko was actively participating in a friendly football match with fellow students when he suddenly collapsed on the pitch.

Initial attempts by his friends and co-players to resuscitate him proved futile, sparking panic and distress among those present.

The University’s emergency response team reportedly arrived quickly at the scene, and Omiko was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Umuahia.

He was conveyed in the University’s oxygen-equipped ambulance at high speed in a desperate effort to save his life.

However, upon arrival at FMC, attending medical professionals confirmed that he had already passed away.

The incident occurred on Wednesday and has since drawn grief and concern across the student community and beyond.

In a press release signed by Ubadire Agua, Chief Public Relations Officer of MOUAU, the institution expressed deep sorrow over the loss.

The statement noted that despite every effort to keep the student alive, the university was unable to prevent the tragic outcome.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Omiko.

He especially addressed students and staff in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology, where Omiko was enrolled.

The University further used the occasion to urge all students to prioritize their health, especially when engaging in physical activities.

They advised students to undergo regular medical check-ups through the University Health Services.

They also emphasized the need for students with known or suspected health issues to avoid strenuous exercises.

This incident has brought renewed attention to the need for improved health monitoring and emergency response mechanisms in tertiary institutions.

Sudden deaths during physical activity, though relatively rare, have been associated with undiagnosed heart conditions and other underlying health problems, particularly among young adults.

Medical experts often recommend regular cardiovascular screening for individuals who frequently engage in sports.

The university community is still reeling from the shock, with students mourning the loss of a bright and promising young man who was close to graduation.

As at the time of reporting, funeral arrangements were yet tobe announced by the deceased’s family.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook