- Obi emphasised that Nigerian heroes should live in dignity while alive and not only be remembered after death.
- The Labour Party leader argued that a nation’s greatness is measured by how it treats those who served her faithfully.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has visited the family of late Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai.
Rufai, popularly called Dodo Mayana, died in July at the age of 61 after a prolonged illness.
He was buried on Friday at the Ikoyi Cemetery in Lagos.
During his visit to the family residence, Obi urged the Federal Government to honour Rufai for his immense service to Nigeria.
Obi described the former Eagles captain as “one of the finest players of his generation” whose goalkeeping exploits brought pride to millions.
In a post on his official X handle, Obi said, “Today, I paid a condolence visit to the family of our late Green Eagles captain and celebrated goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, in Lagos.”
“He was one of the finest players of his generation – an icon whose heroics in goal brought pride to millions of Nigerians.”
The former presidential candidate noted that citizens who dedicated their lives to the nation deserved dignity in life and remembrance in death.
“Reading about the tragedy of most Nigerians, how some of them struggled to cater to their needs when challenged by misfortune,” Obi said.
“I am strengthened in my belief that we must all work together to create the Nigeria of our dreams, where service and sacrifice are honoured, where our heroes in all spheres of life are not forgotten, and where every citizen can live with dignity and security.
“In moments like this, we are reminded that a nation’s greatness is also measured by the value it places on those who gave their all for her.”
Obi concluded that “Rufai belongs to this league of heroes, and it is our collective duty to ensure that their memories inspire us, and that their sacrifices are never in vain.”
Rufai’s passing drew attention to the plight of many retired internationals battling health and financial challenges without adequate institutional support.
Reports revealed that he struggled to offset medical expenses, relying heavily on external assistance before his death.