By Nneka Ibe
Governor Mbah Pays Final Tribute as Christian Chukwu Is Laid to Rest
The late football icon, Christian Chukwu, was on Saturday laid to rest in his hometown of Obe, Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State, amid an outpouring of tributes from across Nigeria.
The funeral service, held at St. Philips Anglican Church, was officiated by the Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Prof. Samuel Ike, and attended by an impressive mix of political leaders, football veterans, clergy, royal fathers, and admirers who gathered to honour the man fondly called “Chairman.”
Leading the mourners was Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, who described Chukwu as a man whose humility, discipline, and values left an enduring mark on everyone he met. The governor noted that Chukwu’s contribution to Rangers International and Nigerian football made him a national treasure and a source of pride to future generations.
Governor Mbah used the occasion to reassure the family and community of his government’s commitment to immortalize the football legend. He also urged Chukwu’s children to draw strength from their father’s accomplishments, stressing that his name would forever remain etched in Nigeria’s history.
The ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including former Senate President, Senator Ken Nnamani; former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi; Senator Victor Umeh; House of Representatives member Pharm. Nnolim Nnaji; and former Minister of Information, Mr. Frank Nweke Jr. Others present were former Inspector General of Police, Chief Ogbonnaya Onovo; Secretary of the Police Service Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani; and top government functionaries from Enugu State.
Chukwu’s former teammates and football associates, such as Henry Nwosu and Emmanuel Amunike, were also in attendance, paying their last respects to a man who inspired countless players across Africa.
In his sermon, Bishop Ike reminded mourners of the Christian hope of resurrection and praised Chukwu’s life of service and sacrifice, qualities that elevated him to legendary status in sports and beyond.
With his burial, Nigeria bid farewell to a captain who not only lifted the African Cup of Nations in 1980 but also carried the hopes of millions through his leadership on and off the pitch.
