Nigerian embassy in Manila breaks silence on Ateneo basketball tragedy

• The Nigerian Embassy in Manila has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Ateneo basketball player Divine Adili following a drowning incident in Aurora
• The embassy said it is coordinating with Adili’s family, Ateneo de Manila University, and Philippine authorities while providing consular assistance
• Officials noted that they have not received any information indicating foul play but support ongoing efforts to establish all the facts surrounding the tragedy
• The embassy also urged the public to avoid speculation and refrain from spreading unverified information while investigations continue

The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Manila has released an official statement following the death of Nigerian student-athlete Chukwuemeka Divine Adili, one of two Ateneo de Manila University basketball players who died during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora, on June 8.

In its statement, the embassy confirmed the tragic passing of Adili and extended its condolences to all those affected by the loss.

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“The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Manila regrets to inform the Nigerian community in the Philippines of the tragic passing of Mr. Chukwuemeka Divine Adili, a Nigerian student-athlete (Basketball Player) of Ateneo de Manila University, who lost his life in a drowning incident that occurred on 8th June 2026 in Dipaculao, Aurora Province, Philippines,” the embassy said.

The diplomatic mission likewise offered sympathy to the family of fellow Ateneo player Rene Baterbonia, who also died during the incident.

“The Embassy extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Nigerian community mourning this painful loss. We also extend our sympathies to the family of the Filipino student-athlete who similarly lost his life in the same incident,” the statement read.

According to the embassy, information available to them indicates that three student-athletes were reportedly caught in a strong sea current during a team-building activity. While one student survived, Adili and Baterbonia tragically lost their lives.

As public interest surrounding the tragedy continues to grow, the embassy addressed concerns regarding the circumstances of the incident.

“The Embassy is aware of the growing public interest and concerns surrounding the circumstances of the incident. We wish to assure Nigerians that the relevant Philippine authorities have commenced investigations, while other stakeholders are likewise reviewing the circumstances leading to the tragedy,” it stated.

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The embassy also emphasized that it has not received any official information pointing to criminal activity or foul play.

“At this stage, the Embassy has not received any official information suggesting foul play. Nevertheless, the Mission fully supports all legitimate efforts aimed at establishing the facts and ensuring transparency in the investigative process.”

Officials further disclosed that they have been coordinating closely with Adili’s family, Ateneo de Manila University, law enforcement agencies, and other relevant institutions since the incident occurred.

“The Embassy has been in direct contact with the family of the deceased, Ateneo de Manila University, law enforcement agencies, and other relevant authorities,” the statement said.

The embassy revealed that Adili’s family has requested an autopsy before arrangements are finalized for the repatriation of his remains to Nigeria.

“The family has requested that an autopsy be conducted before arrangements for the repatriation of Mr. Adili’s remains to Nigeria are finalized. The Embassy is providing all necessary consular assistance and support in this regard.”

The diplomatic mission also appealed to members of the Nigerian community and the general public to remain calm while investigations are ongoing.

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“The Nigerian community is kindly urged to remain calm, avoid speculation, and refrain from circulating unverified information on social media.”

The statement concluded with a prayer for the late student-athlete.

“May the soul of Mr. Chukwuemeka Divine Adili rest in perfect peace.”

The deaths of Adili, 21, and Baterbonia, 19, have shocked the Philippine basketball community and prompted calls for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Following the tragedy, Rene Baterbonia’s former high school basketball coach, Jess Evangelio, addressed viral online speculation claiming that Baterbonia and Divine Adili were swimming while wearing ankle weights during the team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora. Evangelio said he personally spoke with members of the coaching staff and was informed that no weights had been placed on the players. Police authorities later echoed the clarification, saying they had not received information supporting the allegation.

Previously, Rovelyn Baterbonia, the mother of the late Rene Baterbonia, was seen overcome with grief inside a funeral chapel after meeting with representatives from Ateneo de Manila University. Witnesses described her crying and screaming in anguish as she mourned the sudden loss of her son. Ateneo continues to grieve the deaths of Baterbonia and Adili, whose passing has deeply affected teammates, coaches, family members, and supporters of the Blue Eagles basketball program.

Source: KAMI.com.gh