Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has paid tribute to late Green Eagles captain and legendary goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, describing him as one of Nigeria’s finest football icons whose exploits brought pride to millions.

Obi, who visited the Rufai family in Lagos to condole with them, lamented what he called the tragic pattern of neglect that many Nigerian heroes face after years of service to the nation.

“We must all work together to build the Nigeria of our dreams — one where service and sacrifice are honoured, where our heroes in all spheres of life are not forgotten, and where every citizen can live with dignity and security,” Obi said.

He noted that a nation’s greatness is not only measured by its wealth or power, but also by how it treats those who gave their all for its glory.

“Peter Rufai belongs to this league of heroes. It is our collective duty to ensure their memories inspire us and that their sacrifices are never in vain,” he added.