Founder of 2016 Nigeria FA Cup winners passes away

By Asuquo

Posted on July 27, 2024

The founder of 2016 Nigeria Federation Cup winners, FC Ifeanyi Ubah has been confirmed to have passed on in London on Saturday morning.

Nigerian Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, a prominent figure in Nigerian football and politics, has died. The founder of FC Ifeanyi Ubah passed away in a hotel in London, UK, shortly after leaving Nigeria two days ago. The news of his death was confirmed via a group chat of senators, where tributes have been pouring in.

Ubah, a stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senator representing Anambra South, was a significant figure in Nigerian sports and politics. He was known for his involvement in football, particularly as the owner of FC Ifeanyi Ubah. Under his leadership, the club achieved a historic victory, clinching the Federation Cup in 2016. The team triumphed over Nasarawa United in a dramatic penalty shootout at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, marking a significant achievement for Anambra State football.

The club, originally known as Iyayi Football Club of Benin City, was acquired by Ubah and renamed FC Ifeanyi Ubah following its purchase from Chief Gabriel Chukwuma. This acquisition was a notable moment in Nigerian football, as the club quickly rose to prominence under Ubah’s stewardship.

In addition to his football achievements, Ubah had recently joined the APC and was set to seek the party’s ticket for the Anambra State Governorship election. His passing marks a significant loss to both the political and football communities.

With Ubah’s death, questions loom over the future of FC Ifeanyi Ubah. The club, once celebrated for its historic victory, has seen a decline in prominence in recent years. The impact of Ubah’s passing on the club’s existence and future remains uncertain.