By Our Correspondent

A former Super Eagles and Enugu Rangers Int’l FC defender, Bright Essieme has died at the age of 32.

Bright Esieme died on Monday after a brief illness. His brother, Osimiri Esieme confirmed his passing.

Essieme was a member of Rangers’ Premier league winning squad in 2016.

In January 2014, coach Stephen Keshi, included him in the Nigeria 23-man team for the 2014 African Nations Championship in South Africa. He helped the team defeat Zimbabwe for a third-place finish by a goal to nil

The former ABS FC player got his first invitation to the Super Eagles squad in January 2014 and there after made the list to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2014 held in South Africa.

Essieme was a talented and dedicated player on the field, earning a starter slot in the Super Eagles squad during the tournament.

During his career, Essieme demonstrated versatility, showcasing his skills in various positions. In the absence of the injured Benjamin Francis, he played as a left-back against Mozambique. Additionally, he excelled as a holding midfielder in the team’s final game against South Africa.

His career saw him play for notable Nigeria Premier Football League sides such as Enyimba FC, Niger Tornadoes, Warri Wolves, Enugu Rangers, ABS FC.

Bright Essieme hailed from Obingwa local council of Abia State.