SAMUEL OKWARAJI, Nigeria's Most Legendary Footballer.
As I am writing this, I am struggling to plug a wall of emotions with a stoic face. Late Okwaraji which has filled my room with its sober and somber lines is not helping matters. Hmmm....There is no way one will tell the story of SAMUEL SOCHUKWUMA OKWARAJI without feeling the pain of the loss gnawing at your heart, and as your head swells with patriotic pride, your lacrimal glands conspire to betray you. For millions of Nigerians, the most fabled soccer player is none other than this gentleman. Many grew up listening to incredibly woven and mesmerizing story of how he gave up the ghost while Nigeria was playing against India.
After Nigeria had defeated India by a world-record-breaking 99-0, and were on the verge of making it 100-0 and completing the humiliating defeat of the Hindus, they decided to summon their magical powers. Then the horror started. Within a matter of seconds, the India goalkeeper transformed into a lion and the football turned into a rock-hard stone, both of which were visible only to Okwaraji.
But Okwaraji was unrelenting, he wanted to score. Then he kicked the ball of stone. Well, you know the rest of the fantastic lore. Whoever came up with such a brutally false but imaginative story deserves more than 99 knocks. On the other hand, the story and the circumstances of his death turned Samuel Okwaraji into the most fabled footballer in Nigerian history. It's been almost 28 years now since he slumped and died while proudly representing our dear nation Nigeria. I am sure I am not the only one missing the footballing genius from Umudioka community. This piece is in his honor and memory. For the labor of our heroes past shall not be in vain...
May His Soul Continue To Rest In Perfect Peace Amen. Hi friends, just comment R.I.P to honor our great legend.
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