. Demands explanation, apology
The absence of the Minister of Youths & Sports and the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) at the funeral rites of the Late Stephen Keshi was rather shocking and a slap on the dignity of the NFF.
The Matron of Asabe Shehu Yar’Adua Foundation (ASYARF) in Delta State, Dr. Tonia Ngozi (Odazie of Illah), who stated this, said this attitude of the Minister and NFF would discourage upcoming footballers and experts from excelling.
Speaking at the burial of the late football coach at Illah in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, the ASYARF Matron demanded both the explanation and apology from the Sports Minister and NFF.
“The Federal Minister of Youths & Sports and the Nigerian Football Federation owe the entire illah Community and the footballing nation Nigeria an unreserved apology and explanation on the conspicuous absence of the Minister at the Late Stephen Keshi’s burial”, ASYARF said in a statement sent by the Press Secretary, Sambo Ibrahim, and made available to Daily Champion.
However, the Foundation expressed appreciation to those who graced the occasion to bid football legend Keshi a befitting farewell.
They included: Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa; Senator James Manager; Hon. Onyemechi Mrakpor; Commissioner for Information, Hon. Pat Ukah; Hon Pat Ajudua; Rev Fr. Arinze of St John Catholic Church Illah; the President General IDUN Illah, Prof Ezemonye; all the Illah Palace Chiefs and Brilla FM, Onitsha.
ASYARF also appreciated the presence of Austin Eguavoen; Kanu Nwakwo and all Late Stephen Keshi’s colleagues and football who graced the funeral rites.