The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed profound sorrow and extended condolences to the families of three individuals killed in a tragic ambush by kidnappers along the Ihiala-Orlu Road in Anambra State on Tuesday, October 8, 2024.
In a statement titled “NFF Sympathizes with Families of Slain Persons in SuperSport Unfortunate Kidnap Situation,” the federation confirmed the fatalities of a cameraman, a police officer, and the bus driver. The victims were part of a SuperSport crew traveling to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to cover the Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya when bandits opened fire on their vehicle, resulting in immediate deaths.
The NFF’s statement revealed that, while eight passengers were rescued from the ambush, two managed to escape, and one individual remains missing. Earlier reports from PUNCH Online indicated that the Anambra State Police Command successfully rescued six kidnapped journalists on Thursday, who were abducted while traveling through the Isseke-Orlu Road. Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that joint security forces are continuing efforts to locate and rescue the last missing crew member.
Reflecting on the tragic incident, NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau acknowledged the somber mood within the organization. “Yes, we won the match against Libya and took three points, but the fact that three lives were lost created a situation in which we were unable to celebrate properly, and it hurts seriously to even think back at the unfortunate incident,” he stated.
Gusau emphasized the longstanding collaboration between the NFF and SuperSport, recognizing the broadcaster’s contributions to Nigerian football. “SuperSport has been a strong ally in helping to fulfill the objective of the NFF in spreading joy to Nigerians through football. We share in their pain and sorrow at this period,” he added.
He offered prayers for the families of the deceased and expressed hope for the safe return of the remaining missing person, commending the security forces for their ongoing rescue efforts. Reports indicate that 14 people were on the bus at the time of the ambush, with eight rescued, two escaping, three killed, and one still unaccounted for.
As of Saturday night, SuperSport has not made any formal announcement regarding the incident.
