By Deborah Nnamdi
A final-year student of the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Nwachukwu Omiko, tragically passed away on Wednesday after collapsing while playing football.
Omiko, a student in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, reportedly slumped on the pitch during a game with fellow students. Despite immediate attempts by his peers to revive him, their efforts proved unsuccessful.
According to reports, university authorities were quickly notified, and Omiko was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Umuahia, in the institution’s oxygen-equipped ambulance. Sadly, medical personnel at FMC confirmed his death upon arrival.
In an official statement signed by Ubadire Agua, Chief Public Relations Officer of MOUAU, the University expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “Despite all efforts to save Mr. Omiko, we regret to announce his passing,” the statement read.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the University to Omiko’s family, friends, and colleagues in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology.
The University Management further urged students to prioritize their health by undergoing medical check-ups at the University Health Services, especially upon resumption, and to refrain from strenuous physical activities if they have underlying medical conditions.
