Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has been thrown into deep mourning following the tragic death of his father, Sunday Ndidi, who died yesterday after a fatal traffic accident in Delta State.
Ndidi Snr reportedly lost his life after being involved in a road accident at the Umunede area of Delta State. He was rushed to a hospital in Agbor, where he later passed away. The death was confirmed by Ndidi’s club, Besiktas, which expressed shock and sympathy over the loss.
“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,” a statement from Besiktas read.
“May Allah grant mercy to the deceased; we extend our condolences to our footballer Wilfred Ndidi, his family, and loved ones.”
The late Sunday Ndidi was a retired military officer and played a defining role in shaping his son’s football career. His influence was evident only weeks ago when Wilfred Ndidi scored in Nigeria’s 3–2 victory over Tunisia at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and celebrated with the iconic Nwankwo Kanu jubilation from the Atlanta 1996 Olympics.
“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,” the 29-year-old said.
“My dad always talked about his grace, his goals, and how he represented Nigeria. I actually told myself before the game that if I scored, I had to do it for my dad.
“He’s the one who pushed me into football and always told me stories of the greats. Celebrating like Kanu in a Super Eagles jersey is my way of saying thank you to my father for all his support and for showing me the way. It’s a very proud moment for my family.”
On Tuesday, Ndidi took to Instagram to share an emotional tribute, revealing that his father had spoken to him just hours before his death.
“Eeraq you call me this morning with excitement in your voice but deep down na goodbye you dey tell me,” Ndidi wrote.
“What about things we talked about, so we no go talk again Na only memories?” he added.
“Even when I score my first ever national team goal I do that papilo dance for you, but you just go like that EERAQ,” he wrote.
