The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the untimely death of Heartland FC coach and former U-20 goalkeeper, Christian Obi.
Heartland FC’s Media Officer, Olatunde Liadi, confirmed Obi’s passing on Saturday. The tragic incident occurred on Friday, when one of the team’s buses was involved in a severe accident en route to Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, for a pre-season tournament.
“With heavy hearts and in full submission to God’s will, Heartland FC announces the passing of Christian Power Obi, who tragically lost his life on Friday, August 23, 2024, due to a road accident while traveling to Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, for the TICO/SELECT Ifeanyi Ekwueme Pre-season Tournament,” the club said in a statement.
“The day began with anticipation as the Heartland FC team departed the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, around 3:30 pm in three vehicles. However, just after 4 pm, one of the vehicles collided with a poorly parked truck while attempting to avoid an oncoming car.
“Despite the driver’s best efforts, the impact left Coach Obi unconscious with a minor injury to his right leg. He, along with other injured players, was rushed to a nearby hospital in Okwelle, Onuimo LGA, Imo State. Unfortunately, despite the medical team’s best efforts, our beloved coach passed away,” the statement continued.
NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “We are still in shock and deeply saddened by this news. Our thoughts and prayers are with Coach Christian Obi’s family, friends, the Imo State Football Association, and the Imo State Government, the owners of Heartland Football Club.”
Heartland FC also paid tribute to Coach Obi, who played a pivotal role in their return to the top flight last season.
“Coach Obi’s legacy will forever be a part of our history, especially after leading us through an unbeaten run in the 2022/23 Nigeria National League season, culminating in our victory at the NNL Super 8 in Asaba, Delta State.
“We are grateful for the outpouring of support during this difficult time, but we kindly request privacy for the club and Coach Obi’s family. No further statements will be made at this time,” the club added.
Christian Obi was a member of Nigeria’s U-20 team that secured a bronze medal at the 1985 FIFA World Youth Championship (now FIFA U-20 World Cup) in the Soviet Union. Despite being the second-choice goalkeeper, Obi was called into action in the third-place match, where he saved three penalty kicks, leading Nigeria to a 3-1 victory over the host nation in a shootout, securing Nigeria’s first-ever podium finish in the tournament.
Obi was also part of Nigeria’s squad for the 1988 Olympics in Seoul.
