Sekhukhune United
Sekhukhune United’s record goalscorer Chibuike Ohizu has joined Siwelele FC on loan from Babina Noko until the end of the season, with the 28-year-old Nigerian striker reuniting with former coach Lehlohonolo Seema at the Free State side after a fallout at his parent club.
Details of the Loan Move
Chibuike Ohizu, Sekhukhune United’s all-time leading scorer, has completed a surprise loan transfer to Siwelele FC, a Betway Premiership club based in the Free State. The move, confirmed on 11 September 2025, sees the Nigerian forward depart Babina Noko temporarily until the end of the 2025/26 season. This comes just months after Ohizu signed a new contract extension with Sekhukhune in June 2025, amid speculation about his future following limited playing time and reported tensions with head coach Eric Tinkler.
Siwelele FC announced the signing on their social media platforms, welcoming Ohizu with enthusiasm: “NEW SIGNING Say hello to our new striker, Chibuike Ohizu! ⚡️ He’s officially part of the Siwelele family ⚪️✊ Welcome home, Ohizu ✊” The club, nicknamed Siwelele, highlighted Ohizu’s proven goal-scoring ability as a key addition to bolster their attack in the ongoing campaign. The transfer reunites Ohizu with head coach Lehlohonolo Seema, who previously worked with him at Sekhukhune during the 2023/24 season. Seema, who joined Siwelele FC after parting ways with Babina Noko, is expected to give Ohizu a central role, providing the striker with regular minutes to revive his form.
The loan deal follows a period of uncertainty for Ohizu at Sekhukhune. In early September 2025, the club suspended him amid transfer speculation, a decision that raised questions about his long-term future there. Reports indicated a fallout with Tinkler, stemming from limited starts and tactical differences. Ohizu had featured in six matches across all competitions this season—four in the Betway Premiership and two in the MTN8—starting only two of them. Despite his contributions, including key appearances off the bench, the arrival of veteran striker Bradley Grobler reduced his opportunities, prompting the move for more consistent game time.
Ohizu’s Impressive Record at Sekhukhune United
Ohizu leaves Sekhukhune as their record goalscorer, having netted 30 goals and provided 3 assists in 117 matches since joining on loan in the 2020/21 season. His permanent switch came after Babina Noko won the National First Division title and earned promotion to the top flight. The Nigerian’s tally includes crucial strikes in league, cup, and continental fixtures, making him a fan favourite and a symbol of the club’s rise.
In the 2024/25 season, Ohizu’s performances earned him recognition, with highlights including a Man of the Match award in a 2-0 win over Polokwane City on 16 March 2025. His aerial prowess, clinical finishing, and work rate made him a reliable option upfront. Ohizu’s market value, estimated at €900,000 by Transfermarkt, reflects his impact in the PSL. Before his suspension, he was linked with a potential move to Algerian giants MC Alger in the previous transfer window, but the deal fell through due to negotiation issues.
Born on 18 September 1996 in Onitsha, Nigeria, Ohizu began his career with Inter FC Enugu in the Nigeria National League. He moved to South Africa in 2018, joining Jomo Cosmos after impressing in a friendly match. His time at Cosmos paved the way for the Sekhukhune loan, where he quickly adapted to the demands of South African football. Ohizu’s journey from lower leagues to PSL stardom showcases his resilience, with the striker often crediting his coaches for his development.
Reunion with Lehlohonolo Seema at Siwelele FC
The transfer to Siwelele FC offers Ohizu a fresh start under familiar guidance. Lehlohonolo Seema, who coached Sekhukhune to a strong finish in the 2023/24 season, knows Ohizu’s strengths well. Seema’s tactical setup, which emphasises solid defence and quick counters, suits Ohizu’s style as a target man capable of holding up play and scoring from set pieces. At Siwelele, Ohizu joins a squad aiming to climb the Betway Premiership table after a mid-table finish last season.
Siwelele FC, formerly known as Bloemfontein Celtic before a rebranding, returned to the top flight after promotion from the Motsepe Foundation Championship in 2024/25. The Free State side, playing at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, has invested in experienced players to avoid relegation battles. Ohizu’s arrival strengthens their forward line, alongside other signings aimed at adding firepower. The club expressed excitement about the deal, noting Ohizu’s reunion with Seema as a boost for team morale.
For Ohizu, the move represents an opportunity to regain momentum. In a recent Instagram post, he reflected on his Sekhukhune tenure: “I’m representing my country when I’m on the pitch. The coaches trust me.” At Siwelele, he is expected to lead the attack, potentially scoring double-digit goals to help the team secure a top-eight finish.
Implications for Both Clubs
This loan spells mixed fortunes for Sekhukhune United. While losing their record scorer mid-season is a blow, it allows Tinkler to focus on Grobler and other forwards like Teboho Letsema and Mandi. Babina Noko, currently at the summit of the Betway Premiership after five games, aims for continental qualification. Ohizu’s departure frees up squad space and wages, but his absence could test their depth in a congested fixture list including CAF Confederation Cup matches.
For Siwelele FC, acquiring Ohizu on loan is a shrewd move without long-term commitment. The Nigerian’s PSL experience—117 appearances, 30 goals—adds quality to a side rebuilding under Seema. If Ohizu thrives, it could spark interest from bigger clubs, but for now, his focus is on contributing to Siwelele’s survival and growth.
The transfer also highlights ongoing trends in the PSL, where loans help players maintain form amid competition for places. Nigerian internationals like Ohizu continue to shine in South Africa, following in the footsteps of stars like Percy Tau and Khanyisa Mayo. Fans on social media have reacted positively, with one X post stating, “Ohizu to Siwelele is a smart move. He’ll bang in goals under Seema again!”
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