Ex-Super Eagles striker, Imenger critically ill

By DAVID NGOBUA

A former Super Eagles striker, Barnabas Imenger, is critically sick and presently admitted at the Federal Medical Centre Makurdi where he is receiving treatment for an undisclosed ailment.

Coach Peter Oche who raised the alarm in a chat with Daily Trust on Tuesday night said if help does not come immediately, Nigerians may be left to mourn another fallen hero.

The former Gabros coach, therefore, called on well meaning Nigerians and football stakeholders to come to the aid of the Team Manager of Lobi Stars FC Makurdi.

He said in recent years, the sports circle in Nigeria has been badly hit by death so everything humanly possible should be done to save the life of Imenger whom he said has emaciated seriously.

“I am sad to inform you that our friend and brother Barnabas Imenger is terribly sick. There is the urgent need for him to receive proper medical attention.

“I have to make this known because only few people are aware that he is down and in desperate need of help.

“In recent times, we have lost so many ex-players and coaches because they fell sick but didn’t get the desired and required medical attention.

A call on Governor Ortom

“I, therefore, call on the Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ortom, the management of Lobi Stars football club, the NFF, present and past players of the Super Eagles and other football stakeholders to come to the aid of Barnabas before it is too late.

“Going by his selfless services to Nigerian football, it won’t be a bad idea to fly him out of the country for better treatment, if it becomes necessary,” said the MD/CEO at Sisa Sporting Limited.

Although he was asleep at the time our reporter called, Barnabas’ younger brother, Mac Terhemba Imenger confirmed that he (Barnabas) is seriously sick.

He, however, said his health condition is improving gradually but if given better medical attention, he would recover faster.

“Yes Barns is in the hospital and going by his condition, he needs help.

“He has improved a little but danger is still lurking so we would appreciate any support for him from any quarters.

“Our brother served this country with dedication and commitment so it won’t be too much for him to be remembered in his hour of need,” he opined.

Barnabas Imenger who started his professional career in BBL Hawks Makurdi played for BCC Lions and El-kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri before his sojourn abroad where he played in Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

The once deadly striker is also the only former Nigerian international whose son has played for the Super Eagles.

Barnabas Nanen Imenger jr born on November 24, 1991 made his debut for the Super Eagles against Angola in 2012 and is capped eight times. (Daily Trust)