A wave of shock and sorrow has swept through Calabar following the sudden death of Inspector Stephen Enang, a serving officer of the Nigerian Police Force and an ardent Arsenal Fan.
The tragic incident occurred on the night of Tuesday, April 8, shortly after Arsenal defeated Spanish football giants Real Madrid 3-0 in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League match.
Inspector Enang, who hails from Ekori in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, was attached to the Akim Police Division located along IBB Way in Calabar.
According to eyewitnesses, he was watching the match at a popular viewing center on Abang-Asang Street when he unexpectedly slumped in his seat after the final whistle.
“He was in very high spirits throughout the match,” said one of the eyewitnesses who watched the game alongside the late officer.
“He cheered every goal with great excitement. Arsenal scored the first, second, and third goals, and Stephen jumped up in celebration each time. He looked fine, happy—even more energetic than most of us.”
“But after the game ended and people began leaving, we noticed he wasn’t moving. That’s when we realized something was wrong.”
Attempts were immediately made to revive him at the scene before he was rushed to the Police Hospital in Akim. Medical personnel reportedly tried to resuscitate him, but he was later pronounced dead.
The cause of death is yet to be officially confirmed, but sources suggest a possible cardiac arrest triggered by the emotional intensity of the match.
News of Enang’s sudden death has thrown his family, colleagues, and friends into mourning. Many described him as a lively and dedicated officer who was passionate about football and especially loyal to Arsenal Football Club.
“He was a kind man, always full of life,” said a colleague from the Akim Division. “This is a big loss not just to his family, but to the police community here in Calabar.”
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced as the family awaits an official autopsy report.
