The high hopes of many Ghanaians that ex-Black Stars player Christian Atsu would recover alive from the rubble of the Turkiye earthquake that struck about a fortnight ago have been dashed with the news of his death.
The unfortunate death of Atsu, who won the best player award at the 2015 Africa World Cup qualifiers, has sent Ghanaians and many of his fans around the world into a state of grief.
A number of Ghanaian celebrities including the CEO of EIB Network, Bola Ray, musician A Plus and actress Leah Forson and former Black Stars players including Stephen Appiah and Asamoah Gyan have paid tribute to the deceased on social media.
“This is really sad,” Bola Ray tweeted. “No” is the best word Lydia Forson can tweet to describe her current state of mind.
iOna Reine: Although we don’t understand it hurts so bad but we believe in you because we know who you are , rest well Christian Atsu son of the soil you will be missed.
Media personality, Cookie Tee tweeted, “Rip Christian Atsu, may God keep your family safe 🙏 No amount of words can bring you back, rest in peace in the heart of the Lord.”
According to Stephen Appiah, this was not the news he expected. “This is not the news we expected”
Describing Atsu as a king, Michael Essien tweeted, “Rest well King.”
“Rest in peace, brother” is the best Asamoah Gyan said in this depressing moment.
President Nana Akufo Addo and former President John Mahama have paid their respects and condolences to the family and Ghanaians.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Ghana, I offer my sincere, heartfelt condolences to the widow, children and family of our fellow Ghanaian, Christian Atsu, on the sad news of his death.”
Using scripture from Job 1:21 the president said, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away…”
Atsu was found dead in his apartment on Saturday morning, February 18, 2023, following an earthquake in Turkey nearly two weeks earlier.
Rescue operations were unable to immediately retrieve Stryker from the wreckage when the incident occurred.
Atsu, who played for Hatayspor before his tragic death, was one of the star players of the Chelsea academy before moving to Turkey.
Atsu had scored against Hatayspor, his only goal in that match, the day before the tragedy.
31-year-old Hatay lives in an apartment in the city, which suffered extensive damage during the earthquake.
More than 41,000 people died and many more were injured. After about two weeks hope faded but some survivors were rescued.
Christian Atsu’s manager, Nana Sechere, confirmed the striker’s death in a tweet, saying he had traveled to Turkey and was providing follow-ups during the week.
Atsu played 65 times for Ghana, scoring nine goals and was a member of the Black Star squad that appeared at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, which confirmed Atsu’s death early today, mentioned that the latter’s body would be flown to Ghana for burial.
Source: graphic.com.gh
Disclaimer: The views expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility, legal or otherwise, for the accuracy of their content. Please report any inappropriate content to us and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. |
Featured video