Gladness Gideon
A tragic incident unfolded in Calabar on Tuesday night when Inspector Stephen Enang of the Nigerian Police Force passed away while watching the UEFA Champions League match between Arsenal and Real Madrid. Enang, a dedicated Arsenal supporter, was enjoying the game at a local football viewing center in Calabar when the fatal event occurred.
The late Inspector was stationed at the Akim Police Division along IBB Way in Calabar, where he had been a committed member of the force. A familiar face at the football viewing center on Abang-Asang Street, Calabar Municipality, Enang was known for his love of football and his unwavering support for Arsenal.
According to a close friend who wished to remain anonymous, Enang had shown no signs of illness prior to the match. “He was perfectly fine before the game,” the friend recalled. “He was excited as Arsenal scored their first, second, and third goals, jumping up in celebration each time.”
However, after the final whistle, Enang’s absence from the usual post-match joviality raised concern. “When the game ended, and everyone was leaving the center, Stephen didn’t stand up like the rest of us. That was when we realized something was wrong,” the friend continued. Upon checking, it became clear that Enang had lost consciousness. He was rushed to the Police hospital at Akim, where medical personnel did everything they could to revive him. Tragically, their efforts were unsuccessful, and he was confirmed dead shortly afterward.
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Inspector Enang’s sudden death has left friends and colleagues in shock, particularly given his energetic and calm demeanor, and his love for the game. While the exact cause of death remains unclear, the incident has cast a somber shadow over the local police division and the Calabar community.
Attempts to reach the state Police command for a statement were unsuccessful, as the spokesperson, SP Irene Ugbo, did not respond to calls or messages regarding the incident.
Enang’s passing serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and has left those who knew him grieving the loss of a dedicated officer, friend, and football enthusiast.