Thousands mourn Wanderers top fan ‘Yellowman’
Thousands of people in Blantyre on Wednesday converged at Malabada cemetery in the populous township of Ndirande to pay their last respect to one of Mighty Wanderers flamboyant supporters Nicholas Somela popularly known as ‘Yellow man’.
Sochela died on Tuesday after a long illness at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre.
Some of the notable people, who graced the funeral ceremony were Mighty Wanderers chairman George Chamangwana, general secretary David Kanyenda, a Mr Chikopa and Patrick Chisale, who represented Sulom, Daudi Ntanthiko from FAM, Peoples Party regional governor and former Wanderers boss Issac Nyakamera.
Clad in a white and blue flag, they symbols of Wanderers FC, Sochela’s coffin was lowered into the grave exactly at 2, oclock with Mighty Wanderers and Big Bullets fans chanting songs praising their departed friend.
Paying his tribute, Mighty Wanderers general secretary David Kanyenda hailed ‘Yellow’ for his dedication towards the club.
“He was a true Nomads fan. Yellow as he was popularly known was everywhere Wanderers was playing a game be it in Balaka, Lilongwe. We will miss his services,” said Kanyenda.
Kanyenda also saluted Nicholas for being vocal when cheering the Nomads at the stadium especially when he was at the VIP Stands.
Most people will remember Nicholas at the VIP Stands when shouting ‘Ref Penalty’ even when a player has been tacked on the centre field.
His relative, Shaulin Mangani said Nicholas has had a long illness.
“Nicholas has suffered for a long time and we know our brother is in the safe hands of GOD,” he said.
Nicholas, was born on 1 January 1980.
