Forty-eight years after the Federal Government failed to adequately reward Enugu Rangers, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has finally taken action to rectify this injustice.
During a heartfelt ceremony in Enugu on Wednesday, the leading Igbo organization awarded each surviving member of the 1977 African Winners’ Cup-winning team N1 million, fulfilling a promise that the Federal Government never honored.
In 1977, when Rangers triumphed in Africa, the government offered them N25,000 — half of what Shooting Stars of Ibadan received for achieving the same success a year prior.
This inequality caused significant outrage throughout the South-East, perceived as yet another slight against the Ndigbo in the post-war era.
Decades later, Ohanaeze declared it could no longer wait for justice.
“This was a debt owed by the Federal Government, but it is the Igbo nation that has fulfilled it,” stated Ohanaeze President General, Senator John Azuta Mbata.
“If the government forgot, the Igbo did not. Rangers gave us hope when we had nothing after the war.”
The ceremony was filled with emotional moments as football legends Emmanuel Okala, Dominic Nwobodo, and other surviving heroes received their cheques. Families of deceased players, including Coach Christian Chukwu, were also honored with payments.
“Many of our teammates didn’t live to see this day,” Okala said with tears in his eyes. “Since 1977, we’ve waited. This gesture means everything to us.”
For Ohanaeze, this act transcends monetary value; it embodies memory, dignity, and the enduring spirit of the Igbo people.
“Rangers were more than just a team,” Mbata emphasized.
“They represented resilience, a testament that from the ashes, we could rise again.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the award to the Rangers players?
The award was made to rectify the inadequate recognition the players received from the Federal Government for their achievements in 1977.
How much was awarded to each player?
Each surviving member of the 1977 squad received N1 million during the ceremony.
Who were some notable figures present at the ceremony?
Notable figures included football legends Emmanuel Okala and Dominic Nwobodo, alongside families of deceased players.
What does this award represent for the Igbo community?
The award symbolizes memory, dignity, and the resilience of the Igbo spirit, serving as a reminder of the hope provided by Rangers during challenging times.
