The family of the late football legend, Mike Onyemachara, has issued a statement inviting football professionals, fans, friends, and well-wishers to attend his burial.
They are seeking support from Onyemachara’s former employers, clubs, and football enthusiasts to ensure a dignified farewell for the former captain of Iwuanyanwu Nationale.
In the statement signed by Onyemachara’s older brother, Johnson, it was revealed that the family is not only mourning the loss of their breadwinner but also facing the challenge of completing a four-bedroom bungalow project that the deceased had started a few years ago but could not finish.
The family is appealing for financial assistance to complete the house before the scheduled burial date of July 7, 2023. They are reaching out to well-meaning individuals and organizations for support.
Those interested in assisting the family can contact Mr. Onyemachara Johnson E. at 08033240595. Tributes and condolence messages can be sent via email to jemeco ltd@gmail.com.
The family will provide the necessary account details for financial contributions upon request.
Furthermore, the family has written a letter to Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the proprietor of Iwuanyanwu Nationale Football Club, to inform him formally about Onyemachara’s passing and to share the burial arrangements. Onyemachara had played for Iwuanyanwu Nationale before retiring from the game.
Onyemachara’s football journey began with Golden Guinea Breweries in Umuahia before he joined First Bank of Lagos, where he eventually became the club captain. He later moved to ACB FC, also in Lagos, where he continued to demonstrate his leadership skills as the team’s captain. Finally, he joined Iwuanyanwu Nationale in Owerri, where he further solidified his reputation as an exceptional player.
In 1989, Onyemachara gained international recognition as a member of Nigeria’s Flying
Eagles squad during the memorable Dammam Miracle of Saudi ’89 FIFA U-20 World Cup
tournament.
He made his debut for the Super Eagles in a Senegal 1992 African Cup of Nations qualifier
against Ghana in Kumasi. This match is famous for former national team goalkeeper Alloy
Agu losing a tooth while defending the nation.
Onyemachara also represented the Super Eagles during the African qualifying matches for the USA ’94 FIFA World Cup.
The family deeply appreciates any assistance provided towards completing the house
project and ensuring a befitting burial for their beloved late football icon, Onyemachara.
