Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Saturday visited the Amuwo Odofin residence of late Super Eagles legend, Peter Rufai, where he expressed deep sorrow over the loss and condemned the recurring neglect of Nigeria’s sporting icons after their years of service to the nation.
Obi explained that he would have attended Rufai’s burial but was unaware of the date until Friday morning — the very day the goalkeeper was laid to rest in Lagos. Determined to pay his respects, he flew into Lagos the next day and went straight from the airport to the family home.
On arrival, Obi was warmly received by Rufai’s siblings — Bruce, Bosede, and Dele — alongside former Super Eagles star Sylvanus Okpala, who accompanied him. He prayed for the repose of Rufai’s soul, encouraged the family to remain strong, and signed the condolence register before sharing quiet reflective moments with them.
“I am very sorry about the passing of our great goalkeeper,” Obi told the family. “I didn’t know about the burial date in time. I only heard yesterday while in Abuja. I flew into Lagos this morning and came here directly from the airport. Please be consoled, and may his soul rest in peace.”
Responding, Bruce Rufai, on behalf of the family, said: “We can’t thank you enough. We felt abandoned by the authorities, but your coming here is consoling. It has lifted our spirits. We are honoured by your presence, Your Excellency.”
Obi, visibly moved by their words, frowned at what he described as the nation’s neglect of those who gave their best in service to Nigeria.
“Rufai was a celebrated goalkeeper and captain of the Eagles, one of the finest players of his generation,” Obi said. “It is painful to see how our nation continues to neglect those who served with dignity. He deserved better treatment, and this reflects a troubling pattern in how we treat our heroes.”
His comments echoed the frustrations of other former internationals, including Taribo West and Austin Eguavoen, who criticized football authorities for failing to adequately support Rufai’s family. Taribo, in particular, lamented that he would not encourage his son to play for Nigeria under such conditions.
However, former Lagos FA chairman and ex-international, Waidi Akanni, countered these claims, noting that Lagos State had “done fantastically well for the family.” Reports suggested that about N20 million was raised in support, though Rufai’s family has denied receiving such funds.
