While the war between the two factions was deadly, there a mythical story suggesting Pele and his all-conquering Santos side helped stop the war, albeit temporarily. There are different accounts of what truly transpired in Nigeria in 1969 when Santo embarked on a tour to the West African country.

Did they stop a war for Pele?

In 1969, the two factions involved in the Nigerian Civil War agreed to a 48-hour ceasefire so they could watch Pelé play an exhibition game in Lagos. Santos ended up playing to a 2–2 draw with Lagos side Stationary Stores FC and Pelé scored his team's goals. The civil war went on for one more year after this game.

How did Pele stop a civil war in Nigeria?

However, according to the legend, when Pele & Co. rolled into town, the guns fell silent. For 48 hours, Nigeria and Biafra held a ceasefire, during which Santos drew 2-2 with the Super Eagles, with Pele scoring both goals and receiving a standing ovation from the home fans.