Nigerian football was plunged into mourning on Tuesday following the sudden death of Sunday Ndidi, father of Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi, in a tragic road accident in Umunede, Delta State. The incident comes just days after the Nigerian national team secured the bronze medal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Reports indicate that Sunday Ndidi, a retired military officer, was involved in a serious car crash and was immediately rushed to a hospital in Agbor. Despite prompt medical attention, he was pronounced dead by medical personnel. The exact circumstances of the crash remain under investigation, but authorities have confirmed that it was a fatal accident.
Wilfred Ndidi, who recently captained the Super Eagles at AFCON, had a remarkable tournament, scoring his first international goal for Nigeria against Tunisia and playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s march to a podium finish. The midfielder had previously dedicated his performances to his father, who was known to be a significant influence and supporter of Ndidi’s football career from a young age.
The sudden loss of Sunday Ndidi has elicited widespread reactions across the football community. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) expressed profound shock and grief over the news, issuing a statement that extended heartfelt condolences to Wilfred Ndidi and his family, praying for strength during this difficult period. Similarly, Besiktas, Ndidi’s Turkish club, released a statement mourning the death and offering sympathy and support to the midfielder and his family.
Fans, teammates, and fellow footballers have taken to social media to express their sorrow and solidarity with Ndidi, recognizing both his contributions to Nigerian football and the personal loss he now faces. Analysts have noted the emotional toll this tragedy may have on Ndidi, who has been instrumental in Nigeria’s midfield both at the club and international levels.
The incident highlights the broader concerns over road safety in Nigeria, where car accidents remain a leading cause of sudden deaths. The loss of Sunday Ndidi, a respected retired military officer, underscores the profound impact such tragedies can have on families and communities, particularly when they involve prominent public figures.
As Wilfred Ndidi and his family mourn, the Nigerian football community has rallied in support, with several former teammates and sporting bodies pledging assistance and emotional backing during this period of grief. The Super Eagles captain is expected to take some time away from professional duties to be with his family and attend funeral arrangements, which are yet to be officially announced.
