The Nasarawa United player could not be revived and was pronounced dead at a local hospital after losing consciousness mid-game on Sunday.
Nasarawa United’s Chieme Martins passed away after collapsing on the field during Sunday’s Nigeria Professional League clash against Katsina United.
The player went down after a collision with an opposing player while the clash was still goalless
The ambulance was stationed at the stadium reportedly failed to start after Martins was rushed off the pitch, causing a delay in seeking medical treatment for the player.
It is understood he was later taken to hospital in a press vehicle, but medics failed to revive him and he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
AGONY! Nasarawa United players in tears after Chieme Martins was confirmed dead after Sunday’s NPFL clash vs Katsina United. Martins slumped following a collision, however, he gave up the ghost stranded as the Peugeot 406 ambulance stationed match venue did not start ????????️????????????️ pic.twitter.com/PbIms2NkXP
— Shina Oludare ???????? (@sportingshina) March 8, 2020
The Nigerian Football Association has since suspended all league matches in the country until clubs fully comply with the NFF club licensing regulations in relation to the provision of medical staff and equipment at various match venues.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) regrets the incidence in Lafia involving a player of Nasarawa United and further condole the immediate family of the late player and the football Stakeholders at large.
— The NFF ???????? (@thenff) March 9, 2020
…of the medical equipment and personnel as provided in the NFF Club Licensing Regulations.
All Match Commissioners and the host FA are to ensure they inspect all the facilities including carrying out test runs before giving go-ahead for any match to be played.
— The NFF ???????? (@thenff) March 9, 2020