The Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, has mourned the death of two Rangers International FC greats, Christian Chukwu and Christian Isiadinso.
The former two-term governor of Anambra State described the death of Chukwu, a former Super Eagles Coach, as “a huge loss” to Nigeria.
It would be recalled that Chukwu, former Captain of Nigeria’s national team, then known as the Green Eagles, died in Enugu on Saturday at the age of 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.
Obi described Chukwu as one of the nation’s greatest sports icons, saying 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.
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“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.”
Obi also mourned the death of Isiadinso, a former Captain of Rangers International, who died in March.
The former 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.”
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