By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
Tributes have continued to flow from across the grassroots football community following the death of Nigerian non-league footballer Saburi Olayinka Adeniji, whose passing came just hours before his wife and young daughter could reach his hospital bedside.
Adeniji, a winger with Kings Park Rangers, died on Friday after spending nearly two weeks in intensive care. He had been admitted to hospital on January 25 after suffering a severe brain stem injury and never regained consciousness.
The Halstead-based club confirmed the devastating news on Saturday, revealing that doctors had delayed the withdrawal of life support in the hope that his family, travelling from Nigeria, would arrive in time to see him. Tragically, his wife and four-year-old daughter reportedly landed in the United Kingdom the following morning, a day after his death.
In an emotional statement, Kings Park Rangers described Adeniji as a cherished member of the team whose impact extended far beyond the pitch.
“It is with great sadness that we must announce our number 17, Saburi Adeniji ‘Ola’, passed away yesterday morning,” the club said. “He fought so hard to still be here for when his family arrived. His wife and daughter unfortunately arrived this morning, a day late. He will always be a King. He will always be loved.”
Adeniji featured for the club in the Essex and Suffolk Border League and was widely regarded by teammates as a hardworking, humble player who was deeply committed to his family.
Following his collapse, the club launched a fundraising campaign to support his family with emergency expenses. By the weekend, the appeal had raised more than £16,000 of its £17,000 target, with donations pouring in from fellow players, supporters and members of the wider football community.
As part of the effort, Kings Park Rangers waived gate fees at recent matches, redirecting proceeds to the appeal, and observed a minute’s silence ahead of their fixture against Henley Athletic. A separate fundraising event was also organised to help support Adeniji’s family during their stay in the UK.
In another statement, the club said it had been overwhelmed by the level of support, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed during what it described as an unimaginably painful period.
According to organisers, funds raised will go towards emergency visa processing, travel and accommodation costs, as well as longer-term support for Adeniji’s widow and daughter after their return to Nigeria.
“Saburi leaves behind a four-year-old daughter, whom he adored,” the fundraising page noted. “He worked tirelessly to provide for his family and was committed to securing a better future and education for his child.”
Organisers added that the appeal would also help his wife rebuild her life in the aftermath of the tragedy and ensure his daughter’s continued welfare.
