Akin Olowokere, the newly appointed Assistant Coach of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) based in Ibadan, Oyo State, tragically passed away on Monday morning after collapsing during a routine training session.
Olowokere, who was recently introduced as part of the club’s revamped coaching team following the exit of the Gbenga Ogunbote-led technical crew, reportedly slumped on the field while participating in the team’s morning drills. According to eyewitness accounts gathered by PUNCH Online in Ibadan, the coach suddenly lost consciousness and fell to the ground during the session, prompting an immediate response from the club’s medical staff.
Akin Olowokere pronounce dead
Despite efforts to revive him on the spot, he was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention. Sadly, upon arrival at the medical facility, he was pronounced dead.
As of the time of this report, the exact cause of his sudden collapse and death remains unknown, as no official statement has been issued by the club or any medical authority. The incident has, however, sent shockwaves through the Nigerian football community, with fans, players, and stakeholders expressing their grief and disbelief.
Before joining 3SC, Olowokere had a longstanding relationship with Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure, where he was not only a key player during his active years but also transitioned into coaching. He served under several head coaches, most recently as an assistant to Edith Agoye. Known for his calm demeanor and deep tactical understanding of the game, Olowokere was widely respected among his peers and admired by players.
His untimely demise comes as a significant loss to the club and to Nigerian football at large, as he was expected to contribute meaningfully to Shooting Stars’ preparations for the upcoming season. Tributes have already begun pouring in on social media from fans and former colleagues, many of whom described him as a dedicated professional and a true servant of the sport.