Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai.
In a statement released on Friday by his special adviser on media and publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Senator Akpabio described Rufai as a national icon and a proud symbol of Nigeria’s football legacy.
“I recall his days at the Stationery Stores FC of Lagos, where he electrified the local league. And at the national and international levels, he proved his mettle featuring for strong club sides in Europe and other parts of the world, earning the appellation Dodo Mayana,” Akpabio said.
He praised Rufai’s outstanding career, recalling his unforgettable performances at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia and the FIFA World Cup in the United States the same year.
“In fact, Peter Rufai is one of the best goalkeepers Nigeria has produced. His exploits standing between the sticks for the Super Eagles are indelible. I remember vividly his performances at the Tunisia 94 Nations Cup and the USA 94 World Cup. He was simply unbeatable,” he added.
Akpabio extended his condolences to Rufai’s family, the Nigerian football community, the Nigerian Football Federation, and the government and people of Lagos State.
“On behalf of my family, constituents and the Senate and entire 10th National Assembly, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Nigerian sporting community, the Nigerian Football Federation and the government and people of Lagos state over the death of this great sportsman.
May God accept his soul and grant him eternal rest,” he said.
