Thunder Strike Kills Referee During Friendly Match In Niger

A lightning has killed a Nigerian referee during a friendly football match in Madalla, Niger State.

The unfortunate incident happened during a match played on the field of the community’s schools.

The deceased was popularly known as Mustafa Coach 02 among football fans and a member of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

A local, who witnessed the tragic incident, said it happened around 5:20 pm during half-time break of the match between Madalla and Suleja youths.

“It was raining, and all the footballers, along with their fans, took refuge inside the school’s classrooms. The referee, along with his assistant (a linesman), rushed back to the field, demanding the players join them.

“They were the only ones at the centre of the pitch when thunder struck. Two of them were rushed to a hospital, where the referee was confirmed dead on arrival while his assistant was revived.” Daily trust quoted him as saying.

A family member of the deceased, identified as Ibrahim, said his remains were buried on Wednesday morning in Suleja town, where he lived.