Was a victim of racism in India, says Nigerian World Cupper Emeka Ezuego
XtraTime Web Desk: Former Nigerian World Cupper Emeka Ezuego has condemned the death of black American George Floyd in Minneapolis. Floyd succumbed to death after a white policeman knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. The death triggered protests against racial discrimination across the US and world.
Joining the protests worldwide are the African footballers who played with distinction in India. Leading them is none other than 1994 World Cupper Emeka Ezuego. Emeka, who played in India for Kolkata giants East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting has been quite vocal against racism. The 1994 World Cupper himself has been subject to racist taunts not only in India but also in places like Malaysia, Bangladesh, Denmark, Sweden, Hungary, Spain and United States. The 53 year old Nigerian has either played or coached in these countries. According to Emeka, “Racism is social scourage.”
In one of his posts on social media, Emeka has even warned the world about the consequences of killing innocent black people.
"Look at the power of black people," Emeka wrote in a video of the protests burning on social media. The Floyd incident will happen again. But also know that black power is terrible. '
In another video posted by Emeka, a white American police is seen harassing a black person for no reason. The Nigerian has joined the hashtag #BlackKillingsMustStop.
Not only Emeka, several other African footballers who have played in India has condemned the brutal incident.
Nigerian footballer Edeh Chidhi in a whatsapp message said, “As a black individual I strictly condemn what happened in Minneapolis. There are incidents like Floyd happening all over the world. Holding peaceful procession and candle light demonstration won’t cure such evil. We must use the voting power to overpower the government.”
He added, “Personally speaking, I haven’t faced any racism during my playing days in Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Salgaocar.”
There have been mass protests and demonstrations in United States and elsewhere in the world. Former Nigerian footballer Chima Okorie has also condemned the incident in Minneapolis. Chima posted a photograph of her daughter DiyaNnenka taking part in a peaceful protest march on the streets of London.
In the picture Nnenka can be seen holding a white board with a message 'Black Lives Matter' written in black letters.
Sharing the picture of his daughter on facebook, Chima wrote, “My daughter, DiyaNneka at a protest in London. You make Papa so proud.”
The black footballers who have left a mark in Indian football are also recognizing themselves on the field of protest.
