Former captain and coach of the Super Eagles Stephen Okechukwu Keshi has lost his wife, Kate, to cancer.The news of Kate’s demise was made public by Emmanuel Ado on behalf of the Keshi’s family in a statement he released Thursday to the media.The statement reads in part:
“With gratitude to God the Family Of Mr.Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, CON, announces the death of our dear wife, mother, daughter, sister Mrs.Kate Keshi née Abureme.
“She died in the United States of America. She has in the last three years battled with cancer. She gave a good fight until she finally succumbed yesterday.”
“She is survived by her husband of 33years, 4 children, her mother, brother and sisters. And numerous relatives. We ask for prayers for her.” the statement read.
In a quick response, the NFF President Amaju Pinnick spoke at length with Keshi over the phone on Thursday afternoon.
“This is devastating. To lose a spouse is the equivalent of a tragedy. I pray that Almighty God will give you and the children the fortitude to bear this huge loss,” Pinnick told Keshi over the phone.
“Keshi is a Nigerian hero and we mourn deeply with him at this time.
This has come like a big blow, but we pray that he receives divine strength
to cope with the situation, and we also pray that the Almighty God will grant the departed eternal rest,” Pinnick added.
-Emmanuel Ikechukwu
