One of the greatest footballers this land has produced is no more! He is Chairman Christian Chukwuemeka Chukwu. Former captains of Rangers International of Enugu and then Green Eagles.
He died on Saturday April 12 at the age of 74.
Chukwu was a behemoth in defence in his heydey and was known for his free kicks, such that sent legendary ace commentator, the late Ernest Okonkwo, screaming in ecstasy.
This was at a time when such skill hadn’t been honed by many footballers.
He was among the fearsome Rangers stars of old like Godwin Ogbueze, Stanley Okoronkwo, Ogidi Ibeabuchi, Ernest Ufele, Dominic Nwobodo, Nwabueze Nwankwo, Kenneth Abana, Johnny Egbuonu, Emeka Onyedika, Emmanuel Okala and Dominic Ezeani, among others.
In the Green Eagles he played with the likes of Segun Odegbami, Tunde Bamidele, Idowu Otubusin, Baba Otu Mohammed, Kunle Awesu, et al.
The present generation may not truly understand the impact Chukwu made on the country’s football and it remains a pity that this is a country where records (documentaries) are not kept.
There is hardly anywhere one can get videos of the great games of yore.
Were this possible, it would have been a delight and a fitting tribute to show such games during his wake.
Adieu, warrior; adieu, defence marshall; adieu, Chairman.
I’m sure your departed colleagues are happily welcoming you now. Tell them that football in their country has gone from bad to worst, but join them in praying for a return to glory days.
Rest in peace. I can’t forget the joy you brought us.
Chukwu retired from active football around 1982
CREDIT: Jude Atupulazi
