Former Heartland FC coach, Christian Obi has d!ed after the club’s bus was involved in an accident on Friday, August 23.

Obi was said to be in front of the Heartland FC bus when it collided with a tipper while trying to avoid an oncoming vehicle, with the front of the bus seriously dented.

The accident occurred in Okigwe en route to Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, where the club were to participate in the Ifeanyi Ekwueme TICO/SELECT pre-season tournament.

Obi reportedly d!ed on the way to the hospital.

Other players and team officials are injured and being treated in the hospital

NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, confirming the tragic news, said: “We are still stunned and saddened by the report. Our hearts go out to the immediate family of Coach Christian Obi, his friends and relations, the Imo State Football Association and the Imo State Government, owners of Heartland Football Club.

“While we await further reports on the accident, we commiserate with the Imo State Government on this unfortunate situation, and pray that Almighty God will grant the late Christian Obi eternal rest, and also pray that the injured regain good health speedily.”

Obi aged 57 was in charge last season when Heartland FC were relegated. He was a Nigeria youth international goalkeeper who competed in the Men’s Football Tournament of the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul.