As tributes continue to pour in following the death of former national team captain, Christian Chukwu, Amiesimaka has taken a sharp jab at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), accusing them of dishonesty and abandonment.
Amiesimaka, who played alongside Chukwu in the iconic 1980 Green Eagles squad that clinched Nigeria’s first Africa Cup of Nations title, expressed deep sorrow but didn’t hold back his criticism.
“Chukwu lived his life, my condolences. I will reach out to the family. But what I detest is the hypocrisy of the Nigeria Football Federation…” he said, slamming the NFF for expressing sorrow while allegedly owing Chukwu money for years.
He further recalled the strong bond he shared with Chukwu, both during their football careers and afterward. “For me I am happy I had the opportunity of knowing him and playing alongside him at the national team… Even after football we enjoyed a wonderful relationship,” Amiesimaka noted. He also revealed his legal support for Chukwu in the later years of his life, underscoring the depth of their friendship.
Another 1980 AFCON teammate, Sylvanus Okpala, described Chukwu’s death as a heavy loss. He remembered the last time they were together at a burial just weeks ago, filled with laughter and music. Okpala praised Chukwu’s calm nature and football intelligence, stating, “I never saw him quarrel with anybody since the first day I knew him… An attacker could hardly beat him. And he was a free kick specialist too.”
Christian Chukwu, who joined Rangers in 1973, became the face of the club and a national icon. His leadership helped Rangers win the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1977, and he was instrumental in Nigeria’s success in the 1985 FIFA U-17 World Cup as an assistant coach. Until his death, he served as Technical Director at Enugu Rangers, a club still fighting for league glory.
Former goalkeeper Emmanuel Okala, who was a longtime friend and teammate of Chukwu, was deeply emotional when contacted. “I’m devastated. This is sad news for me,” he said. Okala mentioned that they had just spoken two days prior to Chukwu’s death. He noted their strong connection from their days at Rangers and described the loss as deeply personal.
Pastor Igwe Okolo, chairman of the Ex-Rangers Forum, confirmed Chukwu’s passing but did not provide further details, saying simply, “Yes, my brother, Chukwu has passed on. May his soul rest in the perfect peace of God.”
