US – A prominent member of victorious 1980 Africa Cup of Nations Green Eagles squad, David Adiele, has turned a security guard in the United States of America.
Adiele, 67, was spotted at a Hispanic grocery store by a Nigerian who made the revelation on social media.
A Nigerian, who narrated the story of the former defence stalwart, wrote: “This world no balance.
“I walked into the Hispanic grocery store to pick up some swallow food.
“The security man promptly greeted me.
“However, I noticed the greeting wasn’t a regular one.
“I heard him stutter ‘how you dey?’
“Now, how would this guy know I’m Nigerian, I thought to myself.
“As he came closer, I pretended I didn’t understand him.
“His looks may have given him away, but mine?
“How would one easily think I’m Nigerian.
“On approaching me, he began speaking in Igbo.
“Long story short: This is David Adiele, ex Super Eagles great and part of the 1980 Nations Cup winning team, alongside (Emmanuel) Okala, (Christian) Chukwu, (Segun) Odegbami, (late Muda) Lawal, (late Okey) Isima, (Adokie) Amiesimeka, (Aloysius) Atuegbu, (Felix) Owolabi etc.
“We began conversing but ended up shedding tears for Nigeria.
“In a country like US, he sure would be celebrated a star.
“Here he is in US, working as a security guard.
“His legs tired and ageing.
“But thank God for the Okwudo-born ex great, his humility says it all.
“Thank you for your service to Nigeria, even when Nigeria abandoned you.”
Adiele played for the Nigeria national team at both the 1980 Summer Olympics and 1980 African Cup of Nations.
“He also had a stint with the defunct Abiola Babes of Abeokuta.
A member of Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games gold medal winning Dream Team, Kingsley Obiekwu, also made the headlines as bus driver in Nsukka, Enugu State recently.
Obiekwu’s life had plunged from the enviable Olympic heights to the dusty Abakpa Motor Park, where he now drives a commercial vehicle to earn a living for himself and family. ( Source – The Eagle online)
