Super Eagles Captain Wilfred Ndidi Breaks Silence Following Father's Tragic Death
Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has broken his silence after the tragic loss of his father, Sunday Ndidi, who passed away in a fatal car accident in Delta State, Nigeria. The heartbreaking news emerged on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the Nigerian football community and prompting an outpouring of condolences from fans, teammates, and football organizations alike.
Tragic Accident Claims Life of Retired Military Officer
According to reports from Punch newspaper, Sunday Ndidi was hit by a car in Umunede near Agbor, Delta State. The retired military officer, whose service earned his son the affectionate nickname "barrack boy" during his upbringing in Lagos, succumbed to his injuries. The accident occurred just days after Wilfred Ndidi had returned to Turkey following Nigeria's participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Super Eagles secured a third-place victory over Egypt.
Ndidi's Emotional Tribute on Social Media
The Besiktas midfielder shared a deeply emotional message on his Instagram story, which was subsequently recirculated on X (formerly Twitter). In his poignant tribute, Ndidi revealed he had spoken with his father just hours before the tragic incident, unaware it would be their final conversation.
"Eeraq, you called me this morning with excitement in your voice, but deep down na goodbye you dey tell me. What about things we talked about, so we no go talk again na only memories remain?" Ndidi wrote, using the affectionate term "Eeraq" for his father.
He continued with heartbreaking recollection: "Even when I scored my first ever national team goal, I do that papilo dance for you, but you just go like that Eeraq." The post captured the profound grief of a son mourning the sudden loss of his father.
Football World Unites in Condolences
The Nigerian football community responded with an overwhelming show of support for the grieving captain. Social media platforms flooded with messages of sympathy and encouragement for Ndidi and his family.
Notable tributes included:
- @Odigie_Walter: "This is so sad. My thoughts are with the family. May God give Ndidi and his family the strength to cope with this difficult moment."
- @dauda_john73951: "A great loss to the Nation, He served as an Army officer in Yobe State he's forever loved and cheers such a great warrior. Rest well."
- @vektorace: "Losing a loved one is not what we pray for. Heartfelt condolences to the Family."
- @UFWasinda: "Our thoughts are with him. It is very painful. God's comfort we pray."
Official Responses and Football Community Support
Turkish club Besiktas, where Ndidi currently plays as a midfielder, confirmed the tragic news through their official social media channels. The club's training sessions ahead of their weekend league game against Konyaspor proceeded without Ndidi's presence as he grieves this personal loss.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) demonstrated institutional support by sending a formal message of condolence to the Super Eagles captain. Dr. Mohamed Sanusi, Secretary of the NFF, conveyed the federation's sympathy to Ndidi, who had only assumed the national team captaincy in December.
Parallel Tragedy in African Football
In a heartbreaking coincidence within African football, Senegal captain Kalidou Koulibaly also lost his father just days after leading the Teranga Lions to victory in the AFCON 2025 tournament. The Senegal Football Federation confirmed that Koulibaly's father passed away in France, extending deep condolences to the defender's family. The former Chelsea player had missed the final due to suspension and injury sustained during the semi-final match.
These parallel tragedies highlight the personal challenges footballers face beyond the pitch, reminding fans that athletes navigate both professional triumphs and profound personal losses. The football community continues to rally around both captains during these difficult times, demonstrating the solidarity that transcends national rivalries on the continent.
