The 2025 Nationwide League One (NLO) playoffs at the Awka Centre have been struck by tragedy following the reported death of Ikukuoma FC captain, Chima Ukaegbu, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Exclusivenews.com.ng investigations reveal that the late Chima Ukaegbu, 21, was a midfielder.

Chuks Dike, Team Manager of Ikukuoma FC, confirmed Ukaegbu’s death, stating that the defender was not part of the team at the Awka Centre of the ongoing playoffs due to minor ill-health.

“Chima did not come here with us because of a minor ill-health. His twin brother, Ikedi Ukaegbu, a defender, is here with us. We left him out of the trip to Awka due to his condition,” Dike told Exclusivenews.com.ng.

“We were shocked when we received information from home before our match against Ekomzy Classics that our team captain, Chima, had passed on.”

On Friday, the Ikukuoma FC boss further revealed that the late Chima's twin brother, Ikedi, had been granted permission to travel home.

“Ikedi has been asked to travel home following the death of his twin brother, Chima. 

"We sent one of our officials with him to assist in consultations regarding preparations for the burial,” he stated.

“Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult moment. Ikukuoma FC, as a club, will do our best to support his burial.”

Coach Ben Lotanna Ifejiofor, Team Manager of A&A Kiviasennus—one of the clubs participating in the Awka Centre playoffs—lamented Chima Ukaegbu’s passing, describing him as a disciplined and hardworking player during his life time.

“Chima was a former player of my team, a pioneer member at that. Very disciplined, hardworking, and courageous. May his soul rest in peace,” Ifejiofor said.