Ayuba Olaitan Abdullahi, the Deputy Bursar of Kwara State University (KWASU) Malete, tragically passed away on Wednesday night while engrossed in the semi-final match between Nigeria and South Africa during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a tense encounter, Nigeria emerged victorious with a 4-2 win on penalties, following a 1-1 draw in both regular and extra time.
Reports indicate that Abdullahi collapsed while watching the match at a nearby sports center in the Sango area, just a stone throw away from his residence.
Witnesses shared that Ayuba remained glued to the game until the end of extra time, but suddenly felt unwell and was swiftly transported to a nearby private hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his condition.
“The deputy bursar watched the Nigeria/South Africa match from the beginning till the end of the extra time and when it was the time of penalty kick, he complained that he was feeling dizzy so he said he needed to go back home and rest not knowing that his BP had gone up.
“So, on getting home, he collapsed and he was rushed to a private hospital in Sango and he was referred to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) and before he could be attended to, he died,” the source said.
He was buried on Thursday morning according to Islamic rites. KWASU’s Director of Information Saedat Aliyu also confirmed the development.
“Yes, he died last night. He was hale and hearty and was full of life on Wednesday at his office. May Almighty Allah grant him Aljanah Firdaus,” she said
“This is to announce the death of Mr. Ayuba Olaitan Abdullahi of the Bursary Department,” the university said in another statement signed by Saedat.
“Janazah will hold this morning, and his remains will be interred at the Hausa Muslim cemetery, Apata Yakuba, Oyun area, Ilorin, at 9 am. May Allah forgive all his sins and grant him Aljannah Firdaus. Aameen.”
