The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), on Saturday confirmed the killing of three media persons in a kidnapping ambush in Anambra.
The victims were part of a SuperSport crew traveling to Uyo, Akwa Ibom to broadcast the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya.
The victim were reported to have been ambushed along Ihiala-Orlu Road on Tuesday while traveling from Lagos to Uyo.
This is a deeply tragic and heartbreaking event. The kidnapping ambush that led to the deaths of three individuals, including a cameraman, police officer, and bus driver, highlights the severe security challenges in parts of Nigeria, especially in areas like the Ihiala-Orlu Road in Anambra. The victims were part of a SuperSport crew, traveling to cover the 2025 AFCON qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya.
The suspected bandits were said to have opened fire on the bus carrying the crew members and security personnel, resulting in the deaths of a cameraman, a police officer, and the bus driver.
It was gathered that of the 14 persons in the vehicle at the time of the ambush, eight were rescued, two escaped, three were killed and one unaccounted for.
In a statement released on Saturday, Musa Gusau, the NFF president, confirmed the incident while expressing condolences to the family of the deceased persons.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, recognizing that the loss overshadowed Nigeria’s victory in the match. NFF President Musa Gusau’s statement reflects the profound impact of the tragedy, acknowledging SuperSport’s vital role in Nigerian football and sharing heartfelt condolences with the families of the deceased. The incident is a grim reminder of the dangers faced by media professionals and others traveling in certain regions of the country.
“Nigeria football has had a long and fruitful relationship with SuperSport. The organisation has been a strong ally in helping to fulfill the objective of the NFF in spreading joy to Nigerians through football, and they have been very professional and dedicated in their service.
“We share in their pain and sorrow at this period. Our prayer is that the Almighty will comfort the SuperSport family and the families of the deceased, and also grant the deceased eternal rest.
“At the same time, we pray for the safe return of the one person still unaccounted for, so that he will happily link up with his family and return to his job in good health.
“We also thank the security forces immensely for their efforts since this incident started.”
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