The ambulance refused to start the day Samuel Okwaraji died in 1989 - Report

Samuel Okwaraji, one of Nigeria's fallen heroes was born on this day 1964.

The Super Eagles player who slumped and died in a World Cup qualifier in Lagos for more than three decades stunned the nation when he was pronounced dead.

Nigerians were left stunned.

While several other players around the continent have died, Okwaraji will be remembered for his allegiance to the country over the club.

His death has been shrouded with controversy including one which states that the ambulance at the time at the stadium refused to start.

According to the online portal, ACL Sports, Samson Siasia was the first teammate who saw the deceased collapse. The report further noted that Siasia bent "over him then got up, hands on his head. That was an ominous sign. The medical team got onto the pitch but after a while signaled for an ambulance."

According to ACL Sports, "There was an ambulance parked opposite. It wouldn’t start. Four ball boys were needed to push the ambulance van to start the engine so it could drive onto the pitch and pick up the still stricken Okwaraji."

The ambulance eventually started and Okwaraji was taken to the hospital. His demise was announced on August 12, 1989.

The NFF has tried to remember the life of the late lawyer. In a 2019 tweet, the football federation said: “Today, we remember former @NGSuperEagles midfielder, Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji who passed on to glory, in active service, on this day in 1989. His legend lives forever. Keep resting Soldier. #WeRememberOkwaraji.”

It's been 30 years since this real and true Nigerian Patriot passed on while on duty for the country. Keep resting in peace, Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji. #WeRememberSam pic.twitter.com/GjUNjCZTlx

— The NFF ???????? (@thenff) August 12, 2019