August 28, (THEWILL) – The death has been announced of Samuel Oji, a former youth player at the English Premier League side Arsenal and a defender who played for the Birmingham City football club.
He was 35 years old as at the time of his demise.
The late professional footballer, who is the cousin of English R&B singer Lemar, started his career at Highbury with the Gunners in 2000. When he could not break into the regular starting lineup of the first team, he moved to Birmingham.
In his playing career, Oji spent four years with the midlands clubs and enjoyed loan spells with Doncaster Rovers and Bristol Rovers.
In 2007, Oji permanently signed for Leyton Orient.
After leaving Leyton Orient in 2008, Oji signed for Hereford United before spells with Swedish club Ljungskile, Tamworth, Irish clubs Limerick and Galway, Worcester City and Hedensford Town.
Before his passing, Oji was an assistant manager at non-league outfit Highgate United, who play in the ninth tier of English football.
Highgate had reported that Oji was “extremely ill” on Friday night but was “fighting like a warrior” before confirming his death on Saturday.
The Friday report from Highgate sought to clarify the circumstances of their assistant manager’s condition. It noted: “There has been various comments posted across social media throughout the day with regards the welfare of Samuel Oji. Sam is extremely ill but still fighting like the warrior that he is.”
That was before a statement about Oji’s death followed on Saturday, where the club stated: “All it is with a very heavy heart that I am deeply saddened to inform you, that our beloved Captain, Leader and Legend Samuel Oji has sadly passed away.
“The thoughts of all at Highgate United FC are with Sam’s wife, children and family at this very sad time. RIP Oji.”
His former club, Birmingham, also paid tribute to their ex-player with a tweet that read: “The Club is devastated to hear of the passing of former player Sam Oji, aged 35. The thoughts of everyone at #BCFC are with Sam’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”
Another former club, Leyton Orient, also tweeted to commiserate with Oji’s family: “We’re deeply saddened to learn the news that former player Sam Oji has passed away. Our thought are with Sam’s nearest and dearest in this difficult time. Rest in peace, Sam.”
Lee Hendrie, the former Aston Villa player, who played with Oji at Tamworth between 2012 and 2013 also paid tribute to his former team-mate.
Oji joined Highgate United in 2018 and took up the role of assistant manager this summer. The exact illness he suffered before his death has not been made public.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
