Temile Condemns Medical Neglect as Football World Mourns Henry Nwosu
In a shocking revelation, former Nigerian international Clement Temile has disclosed that football legend Henry Nwosu did not receive any medical treatment during the five days he spent at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) before his passing. Nwosu, a member of the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning Green Eagles squad, was pronounced dead at 4 a.m. on Saturday after being admitted due to illness on Wednesday.
Disturbing Details Emerge from Temile
Temile, who played alongside Nwosu at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations and is the Vice-President of the Players Union, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. "It was very sad news; may his soul rest in perfect peace," Temile stated. "When I got the message from Big Seg (Segun Odegbami), I was shocked. They said he spent five days in the hospital at Ikeja. They did not even respond to him. They did not give him any treatment before he passed on."
He emphasized the urgent need for a unified Players Union to advocate for ex-players, noting that President Tijani Babangida is currently abroad. "I'm trying to bring us together again as a strong group, a Players Union which will care for the future of those that have played for Nigeria," Temile added. He called for federal government support, highlighting the struggles faced by former athletes.
Warri Wolves and NPFL Pay Tribute
Meanwhile, Warri Wolves FC has expressed profound grief over Nwosu's death, describing him as a "true servant of Nigerian football" whose legacy inspired generations. The club praised his humility and commitment to developing young talents, extending condolences to his family and the football community.
In a mark of respect, the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) observed a minute of silence before all Matchday 30 games this weekend. NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye, who described Nwosu as a personal friend, directed the tribute, stating that his death is a significant loss to Nigerian club football. Elegbeleye recalled Nwosu's endorsement during his nomination for the Pitch Football Awards, underscoring their long-standing relationship.
Calls for Systemic Change
Temile further lamented the neglect of football legends, citing his own UEFA A License Professional qualification from the U.K. as an example of underutilized expertise. "They just left us by the side. We have to hustle for ourselves," he remarked, while thanking Dr. Felix Owolabi and Segun Odegbami for their efforts in supporting ex-internationals.
Nwosu, who began his career as a schoolboy player, featured for prominent clubs like New Nigeria Bank and African Continental Bank in the 1980s. His passing has reignited discussions about the welfare of retired sports icons in Nigeria, with Temile urging action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
