Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West has lamented his displeasure on how Nigerians football heros have been taken care of even in death or alive
At today’s funeral football match valedictory of late Nigeria Foremost goalkeeper Peter Rufai , Taribo West could not hold back his emotions as he felt disappointed regarding neglect of athletes who put Nigeria first at their youthful age later neglected at old age or time of needs.
Speaking emotionally, the ex-Inter Milan star who is now a general overseer of a church slammed both Lagos State and the Nigerian Football Association for neglecting the family of the late football legend.
According to him, the way Nigerian football treats its heroes after death is heartbreaking. He compared Rufai’s case to the sad stories of Stephen Keshi, Thompson Oliha and Rasheed Yekini, Super Eagles legends.
With these experiences, he said as he hold back his tears that his child is not encourage to play for Nigeria his country.
It will be recalled that Peter Rufai fondly called Dodo Mayana died on the 3rd of July,2025 after a prolonged undisclosed ailments at age 61.
Here are the details of the funeral rites:
- Service of Songs & Public Presentation of Biography: Thursday, August 21st, 2025, in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.
- Funeral Mass: Friday, August 22nd, 2025, at the Catholic Church of Visitation, Festac Town, Lagos.
- Interment: Immediately following the Mass at Ikoyi Cemetery.
- Thanksgiving Service: Sunday, August 24th, 2025, at the Catholic Church of Visitation, Festac Town.
In addition to the funeral rites, the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) is working with the Lagos State Sports Commission and the Lagos State Football Association to organize a Valedictory Football Match on August 22nd. The match, which will feature various football clubs and academies in Lagos, is a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the sport.
Peter Rufai was a true icon, representing Nigeria at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups and helping the Super Eagles win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations. His legacy as a devoted patriot and an inspiration to many young athletes will forever be remembered.
Our deepest condolences go out to the Rufai family and the entire Nigerian football community. May his soul rest in peace.
