To Emeka Onyema, this weekend’s duel between Enyimba and Nasarawa United is more than just a fixture in the ongoing 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League(NPFL) season.
It is firstly an emotional affair and more importantly a test of loyalty. It’s emotional on two fronts because it’s coming at a time he is mourning the death of his father and won’t have to be on the pitch with his team mates. It is also emotional because last season he was wearing the Nasarawa United jerseys and would be watching his former club duel with his new club.
It will therefore be his first test of loyalty since departing Lafia for the famous Enyimba city, otherwise known as Aba.
The Enyimba new defensive powerhouse, made out time from his grieving to speak ahead of Sunday’s Matchday 3 showdown against Nasarawa United in Aba, declaring that the People’s Elephant will leave no stone unturned in their quest for maximum points.
The towering centre back, who only just completed a switch from the Lafia-based side, revealed that though he will not feature in the game, his spirit and emotions will be firmly with his teammates. More poignantly, Onyema admitted that he wants nothing more than for Enyimba to secure victory to honour the memory of his late father, who recently passed away.
“Nasarawa is my former club and I know them very well, but I’m optimistic Enyimba will continue our good form on Sunday. The camp is bubbling in high spirits – both old and new players are determined to achieve a glorious season,” Onyema said.
“Although I won’t be in the squad for the game, my spirit is with them. I want my teammates to get the maximum points and help settle the spirit of my late father, who went to be with his Creator recently.”
Sunday’s clash carries added weight as Onyema prepares to watch from the sidelines while his new family takes on his former employers. The defender’s words have added emotional fire to a fixture that already brims with competitive edge.
The numbers also tip the balance in favour of the Aba giants. In 22 previous meetings, Enyimba have claimed 11 victories and 6 draws, while Nasarawa United boast just 5 wins. With Stanley Eguma’s men gunning to secure a back to back home win, the Ekeoha Market arena is expected to roar with intensity.
For Onyema, however, this is more than just another league fixture – it is a battle of honour, pride, and remembrance. As the People’s Elephant file out on Sunday, they do so with the mission of victory and the silent prayer of a grieving son who longs to dedicate three points to the memory of his late father.
