Tragic Loss in Nigerian Football as Former NPFL Star Dies After On-Field Collapse
The Nigerian football community has been plunged into deep mourning following the heartbreaking death of former NPFL star Habibu Aliyu Ozeze. The tragic incident occurred during a seven-a-side Ramadan football competition in Shabu, Lafia, Nasarawa State, on Friday, February 27, 2026. Ozeze, a respected midfielder who previously played for Kogi United, collapsed on the pitch without any contact from opponents or teammates and was pronounced dead before reaching the hospital.
Details of the On-Field Tragedy
According to coach Suleiman Ibrahim who witnessed the incident, Ozeze was preparing to take a free-kick after a foul was called on his teammate when he suddenly collapsed. "Ozeze's team was awarded a freekick following a foul on his teammate. He took the ball and was about to deliver a cross when he suddenly fell without anyone making any contact with him," Ibrahim explained. The player was immediately rushed to a nearby medical facility, but doctors confirmed he had already passed away before arrival.
The former Kogi United star was buried according to Islamic rites on the same day, with his family and friends participating in the funeral arrangements. The sudden nature of his passing has sent shockwaves through Nigerian football circles, particularly as it occurred during a community Ramadan tournament where Ozeze had agreed to participate to support local football development.
Tributes from Sports Journalists and Football Community
Nigerian sports journalists Adams Jesse and Godwin Wambebe have paid emotional tributes to the late footballer, highlighting his character both on and off the pitch. Jesse, who covered football in Nasarawa State, described Ozeze as "one of the most respectful players I have met in my life" who never looked down on people and was always gracious in interviews regardless of match outcomes.
Wambebe, former Media Officer for Kogi United, expressed profound grief over the loss, stating: "I am heartbroken and devastated over the death of Habibu Ozeze. I worked closely with him and I can tell you that the football star is one of the most disciplined players I have come across." He recalled Ozeze's leadership qualities during team crises and his crucial role in Kogi United's campaign to qualify for the NPFL several years ago.
Broader Context of Football Tragedies
This tragic incident follows closely on the heels of other football-related deaths, including Senegalese star Youssou Diouf who passed away in France just five days earlier. Additionally, Nigerian footballer Abubakar Lawal recently died under mysterious circumstances while playing for Vipers in Uganda, prompting Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa to call for a thorough investigation into that case.
The Nigerian football community now faces the difficult task of processing this loss while celebrating Ozeze's contributions to the sport. His willingness to participate in local Ramadan competitions despite his professional background exemplified his dedication to grassroots football development in Nigeria.
As tributes continue to pour in from across the sports world, questions about player health and safety during community tournaments are likely to gain increased attention. The sudden nature of Ozeze's collapse without any physical contact highlights the unpredictable health risks that athletes can face even during seemingly routine matches.
