Fatal Ambush on Nigerian Highway Claims Lives of Three SuperSport Crew Members"

"Fatal Ambush on Nigerian Highway Claims Lives of Three SuperSport Crew Members"

A devastating incident has shaken the sports community, as three media personnel from SuperSport were killed in a kidnapping ambush in Anambra, Nigeria. The victims were part of a crew traveling to Uyo, Akwa Ibom to broadcast the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match between Nigeria and Libya.

On Tuesday, the crew's bus was ambushed along the notorious Ihiala-Orlu Road while en route from Lagos to Uyo. Suspected bandits opened fire on the vehicle, resulting in the deaths of a cameraman, a police officer, and the bus driver. Out of the 14 people on board, eight were rescued, two escaped, three were killed, and one remains unaccounted for.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Musa Gusau, confirmed the incident and expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased. "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," Gusau said.

Gusau noted that despite Nigeria's win against Libya, the loss of three lives overshadowed the celebration. "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."

The NFF president praised SuperSport's professionalism and dedication to Nigerian football, acknowledging their role in spreading joy through the sport. Nigeria football has had a long and fruitful relationship with SuperSport, which has been a strong ally in fulfilling the NFF's objective of spreading joy to Nigerians through football.

The incident has sparked outrage and concerns about the safety of travelers in Anambra, highlighting the need for increased security measures and accountability from the government. The NFF has thanked the security forces for their efforts and urged them to continue working towards ensuring the safe return of the missing person.

As the sports community mourns the loss of these dedicated professionals, their contributions to spreading joy through football are remembered. The NFF and SuperSport family await the safe return of the missing crew member, and the nation demands justice for the lives lost.

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists and sports professionals in Nigeria, underscoring the need for enhanced security protocols and cooperation between authorities and media organizations.