Hours after the news of Christian Chukwu emanated, it has been confirmed that another member of the 1980 Africa Nations Cup winning squad, Charles Bassey, has passed away.
Bassey died on Saturday aged 71 after a protracted illness in Eket, Akwa Ibom State.
“This has been a day of double tragedy, and the NFF and the entire Nigeria football fraternity are deeply saddened by the turn of events,” NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, said.
Sanusi added, “We lost ‘Chairman’ Chukwu earlier in the day; now, we have to mourn Charles Bassey. May God Almighty grant their souls eternal rest.”
Following his playing career, Bassey coached Calabar Rovers, Mobil Pegasus, BCC Lions of Gboko, Flash Flamingos, Wikki Tourists and Akwa United.