The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified its involvement in the burials of late Super Eagles icons Christian Chukwu and Peter Rufai, saying it provided financial assistance to their families.
This clarification comes after former Super Eagles defender Taribo West criticised both the NFF and the Lagos State Government for abandoning Rufai’s family during his burial.
Speaking at the funeral in Lagos on Friday, West expressed his heartbreak over what he saw as the disregard of Nigeria’s football stars following their deaths.
“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 ex-Inter Milan star said, recalling similar treatment of the late Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and Thompson Oliha.
However, in a statement, the NFF stressed that it had stood by the families of both Chukwu and Rufai.
“The Nigeria Football Federation stood in solidarity with two of our legends as they were laid to rest.
“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.
“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 was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, which the Super Eagles won, and also starred at the country’s first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance the same year.
