A Nigerian Referee was struck by lightning while officiating a friendly Football game in Madalla, Niger State.

The sad incident took place during a game between the local high schools.

The deceased was a member of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and was better known to football fans as Mustafa Coach 02.

The unfortunate incident, according to a local who saw it, occurred around 5:20 pm, during the halftime of a youth soccer game between Madalla and Suleja.

“It was raining, and all the footballers, along with their fans, took refuge inside the school’s classrooms. The referee, along with his assistant (a linesman), rushed back to the field, demanding the players join them.

“They were the only ones at the centre of the pitch when thunder struck. Two of them were rushed to a hospital, where the referee was confirmed dead on arrival while his assistant was revived.” Daily trust quoted him as saying.

A family member of the deceased, identified as Ibrahim, said his remains were buried on Wednesday morning in Suleja town, where he lived.