Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West has voiced his deep sorrow and frustration over the treatment of his late teammate, Peter Rufai, following the goalkeeper’s death on July 3, 2025, at age 61
Speaking at Rufai’s service of songs in Lagos, West condemned the lack of support from Nigerian football authorities, revealing that Rufai’s family had to solicit funds from the public to cover burial expenses—a situation he described as “madness.”
He questioned the role of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Lagos State Football Association, asking how a national football hero could be treated so poorly.
Visibly emotional, West shared how deeply Rufai’s passing affected him. “My mother passed on, I never shed tears. My father passed on in my hands, I never shed tears. When Rufai passed, I had goosebumps all over my body, and tears were rolling down my cheeks,” he said.
He lamented that this neglect reflects a broader pattern in Nigerian football, citing the poor treatment of legends like Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, and Thompson Oliha. West added that such examples would prevent him from encouraging his own son to pursue a career in Nigerian football.
“This is a nation where heroes and football evangelists are left unsupported while their families struggle,” he said, urging authorities to do more for former players who have dedicated their lives to the sport.
The NFF has not yet responded to West’s comments or the allegations regarding the neglect of Rufai’s family.
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