Nff, Npfl, And Imo State Government Express Condolences Over Christian Obi’S Demise

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and its affiliated body, the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL), expressed deep shock and sadness at the tragic death of former Nigeria international goalkeeper, Christian Obi. He lost his life in a devastating automobile accident involving players and officials of his club, Heartland FC of Owerri in Okigwe, Imo State.

NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, stated, “We are still stunned and saddened by this news. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Coach Christian Obi’s immediate family, friends, the Imo State Football Association, and the Imo State Government, who are the owners of Heartland Football Club.”

While awaiting further reports on the accident, the NFF commiserated with the Imo State Government on this unfortunate situation, and offered prayers for the eternal rest of Christian Obi and a speedy recovery for the injured.

Reacting to the news, NPFL Chairman, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye, described the death of the coach as devastating and cruel. He said, “We were hosting the NPFL Coaches, Captains, and Team Managers for a workshop in Abuja when we learned about Coach Christian Obi’s demise through social media posts. Initially, we were unsure of its veracity, but unfortunately, it turned out to be true. It is devastating and cruel, but we accept that life is unpredictable, and death is inevitable.”

Elegbeleye extended his condolences, on behalf of the NPFL Board and the Clubs, to Christian Obi’s immediate family, friends, the Management of Heartland FC, and the Imo State Government. He added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, Heartland FC players and officials, as well as the Imo State Government.”

In an official condolence message, Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, mourned the untimely passing of Christian Obi, whom he referred to as a lost star. He sent his deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and prayed for the quick recovery of the other team members who sustained injuries in the accident.

In a statement, Governor Uzodimma said, “It is with shock and sorrow that the Government of Imo State regrets to announce the tragic death of the head coach of Heartland football club of Owerri, Mr. Christian Obi, in a ghastly motor accident.”

Christian Obi, a former Super Eagles player, was on his way to Abakaliki with the Heartland team for a preseason tournament when the accident occurred.

The Governor expressed his condolences to Christian Obi’s immediate family and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured in the accident.

Christian Obi had been a member of the Nigeria U20 team that won bronze medals at the 1985 FIFA World Youth Championship. He played a crucial role in the third-place match against the Soviet Union, saving three penalty kicks and leading Nigeria to victory. He also represented Nigeria in the 1988 Olympics in Seoul.


Discover more from Tension News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

By tension

Related Post

Leave a Reply

Discover more from Tension News

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading