In a heartfelt appeal, former Nigerian international football star Segun Odegbami has brought to light the dire situation facing retired athletes in Nigeria, particularly in the wake of recent tragedies that have claimed the lives of several sports heroes.
His poignant lament serves as both a tribute and a rallying cry for support as Nigeria grapples with the loss of its sporting legends.
“Another Eagle on death throes!” Odegbami’s statement begins, encapsulating the urgency and despair he feels as he watches his fellow athletes suffer from the consequences of their dedicated careers.
In the past four months alone, five retired international athletes have tragically passed away at relatively young ages, raising questions about the long-term health impacts of their sporting endeavours.
Odegbami’s message is clear: the physical toll on their careers cannot be ignored, and an investigation into the causes of these untimely deaths is essential.
“We shall never know unless something is done,” he emphasizes, urging the government and relevant sports organisations to take action.
At the centre of this crisis is Kadiri Ikhana, former Enyimba FC coach and key player in Nigeria’s 1980 African Cup of Nations victory. Currently lying critically ill in Auchi, Edo State, Ikhana’s condition has drawn attention and concern from the sporting community.
Hon. Austin Braimoh, a former chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, according to Odegbami, has been instrumental in raising awareness about Ikhana’s plight, covering his medical expenses and facilitating his transfer to a specialist hospital for urgent care.
In a moment of vulnerability, Ikhana managed to convey his desperation through a few muffled words, pleading for prayers from fellow Nigerians. “That’s what I am doing now,” Odegbami states, as he seeks to mobilize support and solidarity from the public.
The urgency of Odegbami’s appeal is underscored by the grim reality of mortality that seems to be encroaching upon the community of retired athletes. As he wrote, “death is on the prowl this ‘season’,” a sentiment that resonates deeply in a nation that has historically celebrated its sports heroes yet often neglects their welfare in retirement.
As the nation mourns the recent losses of prominent figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari and the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, it serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life. Odegbami’s call to action urges not only the government and sports federations but also the people of Nigeria to rally behind their heroes in their time of need.
The image of Kadiri Ikhana, a once-vibrant figure in Nigerian football, now lying in a hospital bed, is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by athletes for their country. It is a call for compassion and action, asking Nigerians to extend their hands to those who have given so much to the nation.
In the words of Odegbami, “Please, let’s help him in any way we can.” As the nation reflects on its sporting legends, it is time to ensure that they receive the care and support they need in their twilight years, honoring their contributions both on and off the field.
