Adeolu Johnson
30 December 2011
Lagos — Nigeria quarter-miler, Udo-Obong Aniefiok and some athletes who attended the lie-in- state of former Technical Director of Athletic Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Sunday Bada who slumped and died few weeks ago at the National Stadium, Lagos could not hold back tears as the late athlete begins his final journey home. Hundred of well wishers, sports administrators and other stakeholders in the sports industry paid their last respect to 2006 Olympic silver medalist yesterday morning.
Aniefiok, who could not hold back tears told journalists that his death is a serious set back for Nigerian athletes who are preparing for next year London Olympic games.
“We Nigerian athletes will definitely miss him. His death was a shock to me and I will miss him forever,” he said.
He described late Bada as a patriot who gave his best to this country during his active days when he was alive.
Aniefiok said that Nigerians will miss Bada for his encouragement to the athletes and commitment to the Athletic Federation of Nigeria.
In the same vein, a member of AFN, Dr. Gloria Obajimi expressed sadness over his death of Bada. She said Nigeria has lost another pillar in sport saying that his death is a big blow to AFN members.
Late Bada will be buried tomorrow in home town, Kabbah, Kogi state.
Most of the athletes and administrators including the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Secreatry, Tunde Popoola followed the body to the final resting place.
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