Kenyan football legend Allan Thigo, widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders in the country’s history, has died, prompting tributes from across the sporting fraternity led by Gor Mahia patron and presidential aspirant Eliud Owalo.
In a condolence message issued on Saturday, Owalo described Thigo as “one of Gor Mahia’s and Kenya’s greatest football legends,” hailing his influence both at club level and for the national team.
Thigo, nicknamed the “90-minute man,” “the midfield general,” “Ogango Wuon Pap” and the “owner of the field,” was celebrated for his creativity, stamina and command of midfield play during a glittering career spanning more than a decade.
According to Owalo, Thigo played for Gor Mahia for 13 years between 1970 and 1982, becoming the heartbeat of the club during one of its most successful eras. He also served as player-coach and guided the club to an unbeaten league title in 1976.
Owalo further noted that Thigo led Gor Mahia to the final of the 1979 African Cup Winners’ Cup while serving in the dual role of player-coach, cementing his status as one of the club’s most influential figures.
The former midfielder scored 88 goals for Gor Mahia and earned 86 caps for the national team, Harambee Stars, during a distinguished international career.
“Kenyan soccer has lost the greatest attacking midfielder of his generation, known for beauty, flow, entertainment — connecting players and fans and orchestrating the finest midfield play ever displayed by a Kenyan soccer team,” Owalo said.
He said Thigo’s contribution to Kenyan football would be remembered for generations, describing him as a soccer idol whose footprint in the sport remains indelible.
Owalo conveyed condolences to Thigo’s family, friends and the wider football community, saying the country was united in mourning one of its sporting greats.
“May the Almighty rest his soul in eternal peace,” he said.