President Tinubu Extends Sympathy to Super Eagles Captain Following Father's Tragic Passing
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conveyed a deeply emotional message of condolence to Wilfred Ndidi, captain of Nigeria's Super Eagles, following the tragic death of his father in a devastating road accident. The president's heartfelt words come during a period of profound grief for the football star and his family.
Tragic Incident in Delta State Claims Life of Sunday Ndidi
The unfortunate incident occurred in the Umunede area of Delta State, where Sunday Ndidi was involved in a serious motor vehicle collision. According to reports, he was immediately rushed to a medical facility in Agbor for emergency treatment but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The news has sent shockwaves through Nigeria's football community and beyond.
Bayo Onanuga, the official spokesperson for President Tinubu, shared the compassionate message on Wednesday, January 28, expressing the president's solidarity with the Super Eagles captain during this painful period. The president's statement highlighted the strong bond between father and son, describing Sunday Ndidi as both mentor and guide in Wilfred's remarkable football career.
Presidential Message Highlights Father's Lasting Legacy
In his official condolence message, President Tinubu stated: "I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of Sunday Ndidi. I share in the grief of his family, friends and associates, particularly Wilfred Ndidi, who shared a strong bond with his father as a mentor and guide in his remarkable career as an exceptional footballer."
The president further emphasized the lasting impact of the late Ndidi's values and personal conduct, noting that his modest beginnings and honesty greatly influenced those who looked up to him for inspiration. Tinubu offered prayers for divine comfort for the bereaved family and for the peaceful repose of Sunday Ndidi's soul.
Football Community Unites in Support
The tragedy comes at an emotionally charged time for Nigerian football, arriving just weeks after Wilfred Ndidi captained the Super Eagles to a bronze medal victory at the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco. The Nigerian Football Federation has expressed profound grief over the loss, with General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi describing the news as both shocking and heartbreaking.
Besiktas, the Turkish football club where Ndidi currently plays, also released an official condolence statement expressing deep sadness over the tragic development. The club's message read: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of our footballer Wilfred Ndidi's esteemed father, Sunday Ndidi, in a fatal traffic accident. May Allah grant mercy to the deceased; we extend our condolences to our footballer Wilfred Ndidi, his family, and loved ones."
Football stakeholders across Nigeria have been sending their condolences to the grieving family, demonstrating the widespread respect and admiration for both Wilfred Ndidi and his late father. The collective support from the presidency, football federation, and international club highlights the significant impact of this loss on Nigeria's sporting community.
