Peter Obi, former Anambra governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has paid tribute to former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who reportedly died at the age of 61.
In a statement on Thursday, Obi described Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana, as one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers and a national hero whose legacy will never be forgotten.
Obi said: “I just received the heartbreaking news of the death of one of Nigeria’s patriotic football legends, Peter Rufai.
“Peter Rufai is unarguably one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers, who has now passed away at the age of 61.”
Obi said Rufai’s career was “extremely legendary”, adding that he gave Nigeria unforgettable moments, particularly during the country’s victorious 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign and the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
He added: “Rufai stood tall for Nigeria, especially during our 1994 AFCON victory and the 1994 FIFA World Cup that shook the world. He gave us moments we will never forget and saves that lifted the whole nation.
“I pray that his family finds comfort in knowing he was loved, respected, and will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.”
Rufai made over 60 appearances for Nigeria between 1983 and 1998. He captained the national team and was part of the squad that made Nigeria’s debut at the World Cup in the United States.
