Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali appears to have delivered a subtle but unmistakable response to the criticism that followed his surprise return to South African side Chippa United.
Less than 24 hours after the club officially confirmed his comeback, the Nigeria international took to his Instagram story with a series of posts that many fans interpreted as a message to those questioning his decision.
Among them was a viral video meme by popular Nigerian comedian and content creator Emmanuel Obrutse, better known as Ghe Ghe, who’s energetic, street style comedy skits have earned him a huge following on social media.
In the clip shared by Nwabali, Ghe Ghe humorously performs part of Wizkid’s 2013 hit The Matter, featuring Maleek Berry.
The section of the song reposted by the goalkeeper carries a defiant message:
“Dem say dem bad but I swear dem do nothing…
Dem say dey go throw me punch but I swear dem no reach…
Twenty man shall fall that day if you cross my lane…”
Nigerian comedian and content creator Emmanuel Obrutse, known as Ghe Ghe. Photocredit: Stanley Nwabali/Insta
Although Nwabali offered no caption or direct explanation, the timing of the post has fuelled speculation that it was aimed at the wave of online criticism that greeted his return to Chippa United.
The 30-year-old completed an unexpected reunion with the Chilli Boys five months after leaving the club in search of a bigger move, only for transfer links with clubs including Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Simba SC and teams in Saudi Arabia to fail to materialise.
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His return immediately split opinion among supporters. Some fans jokingly described him as the biblical “prodigal son”, returning to the club he had voluntarily left earlier this year.
Others questioned whether South Africa was the right destination amid recurring concerns over xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals, suggesting the Super Eagles goalkeeper could face hostility both on and off the pitch.
Nwabali, however, appears unfazed. alongside the Ghe Ghe meme, he also reposted Chippa United’s official “Welcome Back” announcement on his Instagram story and followed it with several laughing memes, giving the impression that he is taking the criticism in his stride.
Whether intentional or not, the choice of song lyrics has been widely interpreted as a declaration that he remains confident in his decision and is prepared for whatever lies ahead.
Stanley Nwabali/Instagram
The goalkeeper’s return to Chippa offers him an immediate route back to regular first team football after spending several months without a club following his February departure.
With the Super Eagles preparing for future international assignments and competition for the number one jersey intensifying, consistent game time could prove crucial if Nwabali is to reclaim his place in Eric Chelle’s squad.
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If his latest social media activity is anything to go by, the former Chippa captain knows his comeback will continue to attract divided opinions, but he appears ready to let his performances, rather than the criticism, do the talking.
