Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, visited the family of Nigeria’s late football hero, Peter Rufai, in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos, on the morning following Rufai’s burial.
Obi, accompanied by former international player Sylvanus Okpala, offered comfort, encouraged the family to remain strong, and prayed for the soul of the former Super Eagles goalkeeper. Rufai’s younger brother Bruce, sisters Bosede and Dele, and other relatives received Obi, who spent about an hour with them before signing the condolence book.
Bruce Rufai, who flew in from Spain for the funeral, expressed gratitude for Obi’s visit. “I’m here to say I’m very sorry about the passing of our great goalkeeper. I didn’t know about the burial date in time—I only found out yesterday while in Abuja. I flew into Lagos this morning straight from the airport. I would have attended the burial if I had known,” Obi said.
The family welcomed Obi warmly. Bruce Rufai remarked, “We can’t thank you enough. We felt abandoned by the authorities, and your presence is truly consoling. It has lifted our spirits. Thank you so much. We are honoured by your presence, Your Excellency.”
Several family members expressed excitement upon seeing Obi at the home of the late Peter Rufai, formerly known as Dodo Mayana.
