The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has said it extended financial assistance to the families of late Super Eagles legends, Christian Chukwu and Peter Rufai, during their burial ceremonies.
This clarification comes in the wake of criticism from former Super Eagles defender, Taribo West, who accused both the NFF and the Lagos State Government of failing to support Rufai’s family during his funeral.
Speaking at Rufai’s burial ceremony held in Lagos on Friday, West expressed deep disappointment over what he described as the neglect of Nigeria’s football icons after their passing. He said the perceived abandonment reflects a pattern in the country’s treatment of its sporting heroes, citing the examples of the late Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and Thompson Oliha.
“It’s disheartening that you have Lagos State, you have the Nigerian Football Association. They drop the bulk on the family. I felt in my spirit that there is nothing to put your life for. That’s why I say I have to shift back so that I will not implode. It’s grieving,” the former Inter Milan player said.
In a statement issued in response, the NFF reaffirmed its support for the families of both late players, saying the federation was not only present at their funeral rites but also provided financial contributions to assist the bereaved families.
“The Nigeria Football Federation stood in solidarity with two of our legends as they were laid to rest,” the statement read in part.
The NFF explained that during the burial of former national team captain Christian Chukwu, financial support was extended to his family, and the federation was represented by Executive Committee member Chief George Aluo, Barrister Okey Obi, and Mr. Chikelue Iloenyosi.
Similarly, during the funeral mass for Peter Rufai in Lagos, the NFF also made a financial donation and was represented by Executive Committee member Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi and the federation’s Director of Communications, Dr. Ademola Olajire.
“We honour their service, celebrate their legacy, and extend our continued support to their families,” the statement concluded.
Peter Rufai, fondly remembered as “Dodo Mayana,” was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the country’s victorious 1994 Africa Cup of Nations campaign. He also featured at Nigeria’s debut appearance at the FIFA World Cup in the same year.
Christian Chukwu, a respected former captain and coach of the national team, also held a legendary status in Nigerian football, having contributed immensely both on and off the pitch.
