Fresh controversy has emerged surrounding the death of former Southampton and Royal Antwerp winger Victor Udoh after reports claimed his mother ordered the arrest of his girlfriend and some of his close friends following his sudden death in Abuja.
The 21-year-old footballer reportedly died earlier this week under circumstances now being described as suspicious, sparking growing public attention and calls for a thorough investigation.
Paris-based sports journalist Ojora Babatunde disclosed the development in a post shared on X, alleging that the arrests were linked to suspicions surrounding the cause of Udoh’s death.
According to the report, the late footballer may have died from suspected food or alcohol poisoning while spending time with friends during a holiday visit to the Federal Capital Territory.
“Developing story: Victor Udoh’s mother has reportedly had the deceased’s friends and girlfriend arrested in Abuja,” Babatunde wrote.
He added, “According to multiple reports, former Southampton F.C. and Royal Antwerp F.C. winger, Victor Udoh reportedly died in Abuja last night following suspected food or alcohol poisoning.”
The journalist further stated that the young winger was believed to have been on holiday at the time of the incident before his sudden death shocked family members and associates.
As of the time of this report, security agencies in Nigeria have not officially confirmed the exact cause of death or publicly identified those allegedly arrested in connection with the case.
Authorities are also yet to release details of ongoing investigations, although reports indicate that detectives are examining the circumstances surrounding the footballer’s final moments.
Udoh was widely regarded as a promising talent during his football career in Europe. Before his move to Southampton, he played for Belgian side Royal Antwerp, where he impressed at reserve level and later made appearances for the senior team.
