Stay strong - Nigerian champions reach out to Heartland after losing coach in fatal car crash

Christian Obi (left) died after a fatal accident on his way with the club to a friendly.

Stay strong - Nigerian champions reach out to Heartland after losing coach in fatal car crash

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 13:59 - 25.08.2024

NPFL side Heartland were involved in a tragic accident that led to the loss of the coach Christian Obi.

Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, champions Rangers International FC have extended their sympathies to Southeast rivals Heartland FC in the wake of a tragic accident that claimed the life of their coach, Christian Obi.

The Flying Antelopes took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share a heartfelt message with the Naze Millionaires. 

The unfortunate incident occurred on Friday evening, August 23rd when the Heartland team bus was involved in a road accident near Okigwe, Imo State. 

The team was en route to Abakaliki for the Ifeanyi Ekwueme TICO/SELECT Pre-Season Tournament when the tragedy struck.

The late Christian Obi
The late Christian Obi

"Stay strong, Heartland FC," the post began. "The tragic accident and the loss of Coach Christian Obi are profound losses for Nigerian football. We at Rangers International FC extend our deepest condolences to you and the entire Nigerian football family during this difficult time."

Initially, reports indicated that while several players and officials sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital for medical attention, there were no fatalities. 

However, it has now been confirmed that 57-year-old Christian Obi did not survive the accident according to Pulse Sports Nigeria report.

Obi, a former goalkeeper, had a professional career that included representing Nigeria at the international level. He was a member of Team Nigeria's contingent at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, showcasing his skills on the global stage.

The loss of Coach Obi has come as a shock to the Football League community. His passing is not just a loss for the Owerri-based club but for the Nigerian community as a whole, as noted in Rangers' condolence message.

This tragedy is a reminder of the risks associated with road travel in Nigeria and the importance of road safety measures, particularly for sports teams that frequently travel for matches and tournaments.