Chijioke Gabriel
A wave of shock rippled through Nigerian football on Monday morning as Akin Olowokere, the newly appointed assistant coach of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) in Ibadan, collapsed and died during a routine training session. The incident occurred while the team was engaged in pre-season drills, highlighting how sudden such tragedies can be—even against the backdrop of everyday athletic activity.
Eyewitnesses recounted that Olowokere slumped on the pitch, prompting an immediate response from medical staff, and he was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was later confirmed dead.
Olowokere had recently joined the technical team following the departure of the previous coaching staff led by Gbenga Ogunbote. A former defender with Sunshine Stars of Akure, he transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant under head coach Edith Agoye before assuming his post at 3SC. His death, so soon after his appointment, has left teammates and the broader football community reeling.
As the club grapples with the loss, training sessions were halted and staff and players were seen departing the field visibly shaken. 3SC has yet to issue an official statement about the cause of death, and club officials continue to await medical findings.
Olowokere’s sudden passing has prompted an outpouring of grief across the football community. His journey—from celebrated defender to trusted coach—reflects both the promise of his career and the profound void his absence leaves.
Let me know if you’d like a follow-up story on tributes, investigations, or how the club plans to move forward.