A Nigerian referee, identified as Mustapha Bello, has reportedly been str¥ck d£ad by a thunderstorm in Madalla town, Niger State.
It was gathered that the tragic incident occurred during a friendly football match in the community’s primary and secondary schools’ field on Tuesday afternoon, June 13.
The 40-year-old was a senior official in Nigeria’s football league as well as a member of its referees’ association.
According to an eyewitness, “It was raining, and all the footballers along with their fans took refuge in the school’s classrooms.
The referee and his assistant rushed back onto the field, demanding the players to join them.
They were at the centre of the pitch when the thunder struck. The two of them were rushed to a hospital. The referee was confirmed d£ad on arrival, while his assistant was revived.”
Confirming the incident in a statement on Wednesday, Nigeria Referee Association (NRA) revealed that the late referee has been laid to rest.
The statement signed by the Chairman and Secretary of NRA in Niger state, Umar Mohammed and Mohammed reads in part: “NRA family regrets to announce the d£ath of Mustapha Mohammed Bello, Nigeria National League (NNL) Referees from Niger State (Football) Referees’ Council.
Mustapha di£d Tuesday afternoon while officiating a football match at Suleja through a thunderstorm. May the Almighty Allah grant his soul eternal rest.”
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