The family of legendary Nigerian goalkeeper Peter Rufai has announced that the former international will be buried on August 22, with the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria calling for state honours befitting the iconic shot-stopper.
PFAN has issued a clarion call to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the National Sports Commission, and the Nigeria Football Federation to provide a ‘carnival-like, befitting burial’ for the former Super Eagles goalkeeper who gave distinguished service to the country.
The association emphasised that, “Rufai deserves nothing less than a carnival-like, befitting burial from the people of Nigeria and our great country” to show appreciation for “a patriotic, dedicated, and totally committed servant who gave his all in the line of duty for Nigeria.”
PFAN has specifically called on Governor Sanwo-Olu, National Sports Commission Chairman Shehu Dikko, and NFF President Ibrahim Gusau to “brace up and support the Rufai family, who appear to have been abandoned after initial condolence visits.”
During a condolence visit to the family house at Amuwo Odofin Estate, Lagos, on Thursday, July 30, a PFAN delegation comprising ex-internationals and officials was present. The delegation included Clement Temile, 1st Vice President of PFAN; Taju Disu, Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of PFAN; and Princewill Gbogbodu, PFAN National Treasurer.
The visit was led by ex-international Tajudeen Ajide, former Surulere Local Government Chairman and PFAN Board of Trustees member.
Ajide strongly assured the family of support from the Lagos State Government and noted that the Federal Government, through the National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Football Federation, would also support the family.
In response, the family, represented by Dele Rufai, expressed their appreciation, emphasising that the visit was timely and brought great relief to the family.
PFAN is currently working with the Lagos Sports Commission and the Lagos State Football Association to ensure that all registered football clubs and academies in Lagos State will dress in their official club kits to honour Peter Rufai at a Valedictory Football Match.
The event, organised by PFAN, is scheduled for August 22 and will be held at either Teslim Balogun Stadium or Onikan Stadium, depending on which venue is approved for the lying in state.
All divisions of the All Stars International Football Clubs in Lagos State are expected to attend the occasion.
Rufai, who passed away recently, was one of Nigeria’s most celebrated goalkeepers and represented the country with distinction during his international career.
