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NFF refutes ‘abandonment’ claims as Chukwu, Rufai are laid to rest
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed reports suggesting that it neglected to support the families of late Super Eagles legends Christian Chukwu and Peter Rufai, both of whom were laid to rest in recent weeks.
The clarification comes after former international Taribo West criticized the Federation during Rufai’s burial in Lagos, alleging a recurring pattern of abandonment of past Nigerian football heroes.
In a statement issued on Friday, the NFF insisted it not only stood in solidarity with both families but also provided financial assistance and official representation at their funerals.
“In support of the burial rites of Christian Chukwu, the NFF provided financial assistance to his family, and was represented by Executive Committee Member Chief George Aluo, Barr. Okey Obi, and Mr. Chikelue Iloenyosi,” the statement read.
“Similarly, at the funeral mass of Peter Rufai in Lagos, the NFF also offered financial support to his family. The delegation included Executive Committee Member Alhaji Ganiyu Majekodunmi and Dr. Ademola Olajire. We honour their service, celebrate their legacy, and extend our continued support to their families.”
Rufai, fondly called “Dodo Mayana,” passed away in July at the age of 61. He was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the victorious 1994 Africa Cup of Nations campaign and also featured prominently at the country’s maiden FIFA World Cup appearance later that year in the USA.
Chukwu, revered as one of Nigeria’s greatest defenders, captained the Green Eagles to their first-ever AFCON title in 1980 and later managed the Super Eagles.
