The family of Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has been plunged into profound grief following the untimely death of his father, Sunday Ndidi, in a tragic road accident that has left friends, family, and fans mourning the loss.
Sunday Ndidi reportedly lost his life after being involved in a fatal road traffic accident on Tuesday in Delta State, Nigeria, leaving a void that is deeply felt by those who knew him personally and by the football community that has followed Wilfred Ndidi’s career closely.
Tragic Accident in Delta State
According to multiple reports, the late Sunday Ndidi was involved in a serious road traffic collision around the Umunede area of Delta State. Emergency services were called immediately, and he was rushed to a nearby hospital in Agbor in critical condition.
Despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Sunday Ndidi succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash, leaving his family, including Wilfred Ndidi, devastated and struggling to come to terms with the sudden tragedy. Friends and relatives have described him as a dedicated father and a pillar of the family, whose presence will be sorely missed.
Besiktas Confirms the Loss
Wilfred Ndidi’s club, Besiktas, officially confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement released on Tuesday, expressing their sorrow and extending condolences to the midfielder and his family.
The statement read: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of our footballer Wilfred Ndidi’s esteemed father, Sunday Ndidi, in a fatal traffic accident. May Allah grant mercy to the deceased; we extend our condolences to our footballer Wilfred Ndidi, his family, and loved ones.”
The club emphasized the strong bond between Ndidi and his father, highlighting the significant impact that Sunday Ndidi had on shaping the values and dedication that have defined his son’s professional career.
A Father Who Shaped a Football Career
Sunday Ndidi, a retired military officer, was widely recognized for his discipline, guidance, and unwavering support in his son’s development as a footballer. Wilfred Ndidi has often credited his father for instilling the dedication, focus, and passion that propelled him to the top of Nigerian football and eventually into European club football.
The Super Eagles captain recently celebrated this bond in a public and memorable way during Nigeria’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a moment that showcased both his footballing talent and the deep respect he held for his father’s influence on his life.
Emotional Tribute Through Celebration
After scoring a crucial goal in the match, Ndidi recreated Nwankwo Kanu’s iconic celebration from the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, a gesture that immediately caught the attention of fans and commentators alike.
Speaking after the game, Ndidi explained the meaning behind the tribute: “It was for Papilo, the legend Kanu Nwankwo. Growing up, my dad was a huge fan of Kanu. In our house, Kanu was the ultimate hero.”
He elaborated that the celebration was not only a personal homage to Kanu but also a heartfelt tribute to his father, whose encouragement and guidance had been pivotal throughout his football journey.
“I Did It for My Dad”
The 29-year-old midfielder expressed that the celebration was a deeply personal moment meant to honor his father’s enduring influence and the sacrifices he made to support Wilfred’s aspirations in football. “My dad always talked about his grace, his goals, and how he represented Nigeria,” Ndidi shared. “I told myself before the game that if I scored, I had to do it for my dad.”
Fans and teammates alike recognized the profound emotional significance of the celebration, seeing it as a powerful reminder of the role family and personal heroes play in shaping professional athletes’ careers and dedication to the sport.
A Lasting Legacy
Ndidi described the goal celebration as a way to honor his father’s lifelong guidance and the sacrifices he made to ensure Wilfred’s success. “He’s the one who pushed me into football and always told me stories of the greats,” Ndidi said. “Celebrating like Kanu in a Super Eagles jersey is my way of saying thank you. It’s a very proud moment for my family.”
The football community has since rallied around Wilfred Ndidi, offering messages of support, condolences, and prayers for the late Sunday Ndidi, acknowledging the profound loss experienced by the Super Eagles captain and his loved ones during this difficult period.
As the family mourns, tributes continue to pour in, reflecting the widespread respect for Sunday Ndidi’s character and the enduring legacy he leaves behind through his son’s achievements both on and off the pitch.[/p>