By Peace Udugba.
A former Nigerian international has expressed deep disappointment over the treatment of the family of late Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana.”
Speaking with emotion, the ex-footballer said it was heartbreaking that both Lagos State authorities and the Nigerian Football Federation failed to take responsibility or show support following Rufai’s passing.
“It’s disheartening that you have Lagos State, you have the Nigerian Football Association, yet they leave everything to the family. I felt in my spirit that there is nothing worth putting your life on the line for. That’s why I had to step back—so I don’t implode. It’s grieving,” he said.
He recounted how Rufai’s death affected him more deeply than any personal loss he had experienced.
“My mother passed on—I never shed a tear. My father died in my hands—I didn’t cry. But when Rufai passed, I had goosebumps all over. I was speaking to someone and tears rolled down my cheeks. What kind of nation is this?” he asked.
He recalled similar experiences with late football legends such as Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and Thompson Oliha, lamenting how the neglect of heroes who brought pride to the nation has become a pattern.
“With this kind of example, I would never encourage even my own son to serve this country through football. Send me out if you want! Do we even have a Football Federation or just a Football Association in Lagos State?
“That a hero like Rufai—this football soldier, evangelist—would be left for his family to beg for help? Imagine his loved ones crying and soliciting money within football circles. That’s madness,” he said.
