Tragedy as Nigerian non-league footballer Sabiru Adeniji dies in UK after brain injury

Nigerian non-league footballer Saburi Olayinka Adeniji, popularly known as Sabiru Adeniji, has passed away in the United Kingdom following complications from a severe brain injury, drawing widespread tributes from across the football community, Sport360NG reports.

Adeniji, who featured as a winger for Kings Park Rangers FC in Essex, died in hospital on Friday. He had been placed in intensive care after suffering a serious brain stem injury on January 25.

The circumstances surrounding his death have added to the heartbreak. His wife and four-year-old daughter travelled from Nigeria to be with him during his treatment, but arrived in the UK a day after he had passed away.

In a statement confirming the loss, Kings Park Rangers paid an emotional tribute to the late footballer, highlighting his determination and character during his final days.

“It is with great sadness that we announce that our number 17, Saburi Adeniji ‘Ola’, passed away yesterday morning,” the club said. “He fought so hard to still be here for when his family arrived. His wife and daughter unfortunately arrived this morning, a day late. He will always be a King. He will always be loved.”

Adeniji’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from teammates, supporters and members of the wider football fraternity, many of whom have remembered him for his dedication on the pitch and his strength of spirit away from the game.