By Emmanuel Olagunju
The family of late Nigerian goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, has broken silence on the circumstances surrounding the passing and burial of the late legend.
In an exclusive interview with OSPOLY SPORTS LEGENDS HANGOUT on Wednesday night via WhatsApp ,Madam Awoniyi Dupe Bilikis, a niece of the late goalkeeper, revealed that the family was surprised to hear about the NFF’s alleged support of N40 million for the burial, which, she claimed the family is yet to receive.
” We heard about the support on Arise TV , but we never received any money, from the Rufai family, I mean the father’s side, we didn’t see anything and we are still deliberating on the issue in the family platform”
“I’m saying this on behalf of the father’s side, I don’t know, may be, the money was given to the siblings from the mother’s side but we asked them and they said they were not given any money”
“The family is still on it, if I eventually have any update, I will share with you”.
On health condition of the legend before his demise, Madam Awoniyi, said the deceased kept the sickness private until his condition became unbearable. “We didn’t know about his health issues until it was too late,” Madam Awoniyi said.
When asked about the future of Rufai’s football academy, Madam Awoniyi stated that it would be up to his children to decide whether to continue the academy.
Madam Awoniyi expressed concern over the lifestyle and welfare of former players after retirement. She called for transparency and accountability in the handling of funds meant for former athletes who have made the country proud .
As the family continues to navigate the aftermath of Peter Rufai’s passing, they remain committed to honoring his legacy and ensuring that his contributions to Nigerian football are not forgotten.
