Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Olawale Liameed and the Enyimba Football Club, on Sunday expressed sadness over the demise of ex- Super Eagles coach, Christian Chukwu.

Mr Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, made the statement while reacting to the death of Mr Chukwu, a legend in the Nigerian football space.

Recall that Chukwu; a former captain of Nigeria’s national team, then known as the Green Eagles, died in Enugu on Saturday aged 74,

Chairman, as he was fondly called, led the team to its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title in 1980, having finished as runner-up in 1976 and 1978 respectively.

Mr Obi described the late Chukwu as one of the nation’s greatest sports icons, saying that his influence in Nigerian football history was towering.

He said, “Chukwu was not only an outstanding footballer, he was an exemplary leader who captained and later coached both the national team and Rangers. I commend his immense contributions to the game. His skills, discipline, and commitment brought pride to Nigeria. Chukwu’s role in football brought joy to millions of football enthusiasts across Africa and beyond.”

Mr Obi has also mourned a former Captain of Rangers International, Christian Isiadinso, who died in March.

The former Anambra State governor expressed pain over the death of the two footballers, saying that their lives were marked by resilience and patriotism.

He said, “Chukwu and Isiadinso sacrificed immensely for the advancement of sports and the nation at large. I extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved families, the football fraternity, and the entire nation. I pray that God will grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed. I hope that their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian sportsmen and women.”

Mr Liameed said that it was a tragic development for the entire football family in Nigeria and beyond.

He added that while was alive, Mr Chukwu was exemplary and a role model to several generations of Nigerian players.

He stated, “He was known for his robust style of play and commanding presence on and off the field, Chukwu, also fondly called ‘Oyim’, by close friends. He notably captained the Green Eagles to victory in 1980 African Cup of Nations hosted by Nigeria, which was the first of Nigeria’s three continental titles.

“The late Chukwu, was iconic in all ramifications. He was truly the ‘Chairman,’ of Nigerian footballers. Like many Nigerians, I also grew up adoring this great Nigerian.”

He added that the late footballer was a great leader who played key role in many of Nigeria’s football achievements .

“On behalf of the board members of Lagos FA, the stakeholders and the entire football community in the state, I commiserate with the NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau. The leadership of the National Sports Commission, and of course, the family and friends of the deceased. However, we take solace in the fact that the Chukwu led a great life marked by compassion, kindness and humility, dedicated to the unity, peace and development of Nigeria, through football.

“We pray that God in His infinite mercies grant him eternal rest and also give his family, friends and associates, the fortitude and strength to bear this great loss,”he said.

Also, Enyimba International FC of Aba, in a statement on Sunday in Aba by its Chairman, Nwankwo Kanu, described the late Chukwu as a stalwart of Nigerian football.

Mr Kanu said the late Chukwu was renowned for his exceptional defensive skills as a player and his tactical acumen as a coach.

Mr Chukwu died on Saturday at the Eastern Niger Medical Centre.

He stated, “It is with profound sadness that Enyimba FC learned of the passing of legendary Nigerian footballer and coach, Christian Chukwu Okoro, who departed this life at the age of 74. As captain of the Nigerian national team, he led the Green Eagles to their first Africa Cup of Nations victory in 1980, a testament to his leadership and dedication. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and the entire football fraternity, who have lost a true icon. We take comfort in the indelible mark he left on Nigerian football and the memories of his achievements on and off the pitch.”

Mr Kanu, who had the privilege of playing under the late Chukwu’s guidance at the national team, said he was a mentor and a legend of the game.

“So, we stand in solidarity with the football community in mourning this loss and celebrate the life and legacy of Chukwu. May his soul rest in perfect peace,” he added.

The late Chukwu captained the Nigerian national team, then known as the Green Eagles, between 1974 and 1980.

Chukwu began his coaching career in October 1998, becoming the coach of the Kenya national team.

He also managed the Super Eagles from 2003 to 2005, leading them to the semifinals of the 2004 African Cup of Nations.

(NAN)