Anambra State Football Association has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Nigeria Football Referees Association, NRA, President, Alhaji Azeez Tade, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

In an emotional message signed by the ANSFA Chairman and former Super Eagles defender, Chikelue Iloenyosi, the FA described the late referees boss as the 'rallying point' for football in the country.

"We received with shock and disbelief the news of the death on Friday, of a former President of the Nigeria Referees Association, NRA, Alhaji Tade Azeez.

"The late Tade Azeez was a rallying point for the round leather game in Nigeria 

"His style of leadership as the Referees' Association boss, was unique and remarkable.

"The late Azeez, was a football administrator per excellence, who displayed high level sportsmanship and integrity.

"Painfully, we have lost another big voice, a personality whose leadership acumen will be missed.

"At this very difficult moment,The Chairman of ANSFA and members of the Board pray that God accepts his gentle soul and grant his family and the entire football fraternity the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss".