Author: Gist Correspondent

Confusion has surrounded the condition of Katsina United defender, Ozor Chinedu, after the 18-year-old footballer was reportedly declared dead before signs of life were later detected at a mortuary.

Chinedu collapsed on the pitch during a pre-season match between Katsina United and Niger Tornadoes in the ongoing Gusau/Ahlan Pre-season Cup at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina on Tuesday.

The defender, who recently joined Katsina United from Kano Pillars, was rushed to K-Dara Specialist Hospital, where he was reportedly pronounced dead by medical personnel.

Following the announcement, Katsina United released a condolence message, while several football clubs, including Heartland FC and Kano Pillars, paid tribute to the player on social media.

However, the situation took a dramatic turn when staff at the mortuary of Katsina General Hospital reportedly noticed movement in Chinedu's body.

He was immediately removed from the mortuary, transferred to the hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and placed on oxygen for emergency treatment.

The Media Officer of Katsina United, Nasir Gide, confirmed the development, disclosing that the player had been declared dead twice before medical personnel discovered signs of life.

Heartland FC also confirmed the incident and appealed to football fans and the general public to pray for the young defender's recovery.

As of Wednesday morning, Chinedu remained in critical condition at Katsina General Hospital, with doctors monitoring his health while awaiting a comprehensive medical assessment.