4 football academy players die in accident while returning from friendly match

A devastating motor accident  along the Kwanan Maciji – Pankshin-Kanke road in Plateau State on Wednesday claimed the lives of four young football players from Lebwit Football Academy, Kanke, as well as their driver.

The deceased players have been identified as Shikritda Giswa, Chabe Gontul, Nenyitwe Gopar, and Dargak Caleb, while the driver of the vehicle, reportedly from Dunging, also perished in the crash.

The group was returning from a friendly match against a team in Pankshin when the accident occurred. Other players injured in the incident are currently being treated at the General Hospital in Pankshin.

Habila Hosea Mutla, the Manager of Plateau University FC, confirmed the tragic event, stating: “The unfortunate incident claimed the lives of five young players along Kwanan Maciji road, Pankshin. Other players injured in the accident are receiving treatment at the General Hospital Pankshin.”

He expressed deep sorrow over the loss, adding, “The sight of young football players dying as a result of an accident is quite disheartening. However, the people of Kanke Local Government Council should take heart and trust God for consolation.”

In response to the tragedy,  Yahaya Kwande, Chairman of the Plateau State Football Association (FA), offered his condolences: “As a community, we mourn the loss of these vibrant young talents who dedicated their energy to the sport they loved. We also rally in hope and prayer for the swift recovery of the injured.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathy to all the affected families and call on well-meaning individuals and institutions to support the ongoing medical care and recovery process. May the gentle souls of the departed rest in peace, and may God Almighty bring healing and comfort to the survivors, their families, and the entire Plateau football community.”