Kings Park Football Club has announced the death of one of its players, Saburi Adeniji, popularly known as “Ola”, who died on Friday morning after complications arising from a severe brain stem injury.
In an official statement, the club described Adeniji’s passing as a devastating blow to the Kings Park family and the wider football community. He wore the number 17 jersey and was widely known as a committed footballer and a highly respected teammate.
Adeniji had been on admission at Queen’s Hospital, where he was placed in the Intensive Care Unit on 15 January 2026 under the supervision of the Critical Care Department.
Medical information from the hospital indicated that his condition continued to worsen, and he was subsequently medically declared brain dead, with doctors noting that he was imminently dying.
Hospital officials reportedly explained that changes to the law introduced at the beginning of the year caused an initial delay in withdrawing life support, as further formal tests and procedures were required. After these processes were completed, the hospital reportedly granted a brief window for Adeniji’s family to travel to the United Kingdom.
At the time, his wife and their four-year-old daughter were in Nigeria. An official letter from the hospital was said to have urgently requested compassionate consideration to allow his wife to travel to the UK to be by her husband’s side and say her final goodbye.
Despite efforts to reunite the family before the end, Adeniji’s wife and daughter reportedly arrived one day after his death.
During his hospital stay, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support emergency visa processing, flight tickets, travel expenses, accommodation, and living costs. Supporters were told the funds were urgently required due to the limited time available.
Paying tribute, Kings Park FC said Adeniji was far more than just a player. “He will always be a King,” the club stated, honouring him as a teammate, friend, husband, father, brother, and son. The club also acknowledged that it faces a deeply emotional period, with funeral arrangements and other closure activities ahead.
As a mark of respect, Kings Park FC announced that its scheduled match against @TheCastlemen would not take place. The club confirmed it will resume competitive action on 21 February.
Since the announcement, tributes have continued to flow from teammates, supporters, and members of the football community, many describing Adeniji as strong, kind, and deeply dedicated to the sport.
“This is a very difficult time for everyone connected to the club,” Kings Park FC said, adding that the club remains united in supporting Adeniji’s family and loved ones.
The club extended its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all those affected by his passing.
What you should know
Saburi “Ola” Adeniji’s death has highlighted the emotional toll of medical emergencies faced by athletes playing abroad, especially when families are separated by immigration and travel barriers.
His case also draws attention to recent legal changes affecting end-of-life medical decisions in the UK.
Beyond football, Adeniji’s passing has sparked widespread solidarity, with supporters rallying to assist his family through fundraising and tributes, underscoring the strong sense of community that exists within grassroots football.
