The Untold Story: How Pastor Tunde Bakare Fought to Save Peter Rufai's Life
The football world is still mourning the recent passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, at the age of 61. Now, a heart-wrenching new detail has emerged, shedding light on his final days and a desperate, last-ditch effort to save his life by none other than prominent clergyman, Pastor Tunde Bakare.
The poignant revelation comes from Rufai's closest confidant and best man, Godwin Obiyan, a former Stationery Stores midfielder. Obiyan, who described his bond with Rufai as being "more than just teammates, he was my brother," served as best man at the iconic goalkeeper's wedding, a testament to their profound friendship.
A Pastor's Intuition, A Race Against Time
According to Obiyan, the dramatic turn of events unfolded during a private visit to discuss a planned book launch. After a church service, Pastor Tunde Bakare, founder of the Citadel Global Community Church, reportedly sensed something was deeply amiss with Rufai's health. "Pastor Bakare invited him into a private room," Obiyan recounted, "and with a keen eye, he recognized the seriousness of the situation. Without hesitation, he immediately arranged for Rufai to be rushed to the hospital."
What followed was a harrowing six to eight hours as doctors reportedly worked tirelessly on Peter Rufai. "Sadly," Obiyan lamented, "that was the last time we heard from him. His phone stopped ringing, and no one could reach him after that day."
"Dodo's" Private Battle
Obiyan also offered a glimpse into the private world of "Dodo," as Rufai was affectionately known. Despite his public persona of cheerfulness and laughter, Rufai was a man who rarely divulged his personal struggles or health concerns. "He carried a lot in silence," Obiyan revealed, adding another layer of pathos to the tragic news.
This moving account from Peter Rufai's closest friend provides a deeper, more emotional understanding of the beloved Nigerian football icon's final moments. It underscores not just the loss of a sporting hero, but also the unexpected intervention of a spiritual leader in a valiant, albeit ultimately heartbreaking, attempt to save his life. The football fraternity, and indeed the nation, continues to mourn the passing of a legend whose impact on Nigerian football will forever be cherished.
