Former Heartland FC coach, Christian Obi, tragically passed away after the club’s bus was involved in a fatal accident on Friday, August 23.
The incident occurred in Okigwe, while the team was en route to Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, to participate in the Ifeanyi Ekwueme TICO/SELECT pre-season tournament.
Obi, who was seated at the front of the bus, was critically injured when the vehicle collided with a tipper while attempting to avoid an oncoming car.
The front of the bus was severely damaged in the crash. Obi succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.
Several players and team officials sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in the hospital.
NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, expressed his deep sorrow over the incident. “We are still stunned and saddened by the report. Our hearts go out to the immediate family of Coach Christian Obi, his friends and relations, the Imo State Football Association, and the Imo State Government, owners of Heartland Football Club.
“While we await further reports on the accident, we commiserate with the Imo State Government on this unfortunate situation, and pray that Almighty God will grant the late Christian Obi eternal rest, and also pray that the injured regain good health speedily,” Gusau stated.
Christian Obi, aged 57, was the coach of Heartland FC during their last season, which ended in relegation.
He was also a former Nigeria youth international goalkeeper and represented the country in the Men’s Football Tournament at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. His death is a significant loss to the football community.
