Iorfa pained by deaths of Audu, Abeda

Lobi Stars vice chairman Dominic Iorfa has expressed grief over the death of their striker Seriki Audu as well as former referee Michael Abeda.

The two men passed away in the past week, and Iorfa has described their demise as huge losses for Lobi Stars.

The camp of Lobi Stars was thrown into mourning on Saturday morning when news filtered in that Audu has passed away after an automobile accident.

Audu was driving in the company of his family, his wife and daughter, from his home town in Yobe State to Bauchi State when the accident occurred. His wife and daughter are still in hospital.

The former Queens Park Rangers striker expressed sadness and shock over the passing away of Audu.

"I'm really in shock to hear of this very sad news. He was one player who was professional on and off the pitch and was always ready to learn. Whenever he got the chance to play for Lobi Stars, his impact was always felt. It's a big loss for us and also his family. I want to send my condolence to his family and pray God grant his soul rest," said Iorfa.

Audu joined Lobi Stars from Yobe Stars and scored in the Federation Cup quarterfinal against Dolphins and against Bayelsa United in the NPFL last season.

He was a corporal until his death after attending the Police Training School in Minna for his promotion course.

His promotion course with the Nigeria Police was a major reason he had limited playing time with Lobi Stars last season.

Meanwhile, retired referee and retired DSP, Abeda, died after a brief illness in Katsina-Ala, the home town of Lobi Stars for the past two seasons in the NPFL.

Iorfa said Abeda's support for Lobi Stars since moving to Katsina-Ala as been "enormous".

"His death has thrown Benue football into mourning. Pa Abeda officiated when I played for clubs in Gboko. He was of enormous support to Lobi Stars since we moved to Katsina-Ala. We shall miss his presence and moral support at our home matches," he said.