The Supervising Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi has expressed sadness over the death of former footballer, RashidiYekini, saying it is shocking and untimely.
Abdullahi in a statement signed by his media aide, Mr Julius Ogunro and made available to LEADERSHIP, yesterday noted thatYekini was one of the greatest footballers in Nigeria’s history, recalling his exploits at the Nations Cup in Tunisia ‘94 and his goal at the US 94 World Cup.
‘He was a great Nigerian and a great asset’, the minister said.? ‘Although he is dead, I am sure his memory will live forever. There’s no doubt that when the story of Nigerian football is written, his name will feature prominently,” he said.
Mallam Abdullahi commiserates with his family and prays that God will give them the fortitude to bear the loss.
Meanwhile, Football fans and admirers of late Rashidi Yekini, have denied the speculation that he ran mad before his demise just as Oyo and Osun states have donated two million naira to his family.
The admirers who lavished encomium on the deceased dispelled the rumour that the footballer died as a result of insanity.
The views of his fans were corroborated by Mr. Mutiu Adepoju former General Manager of 3sc who was his class mate and his legal adviser Barrister A. Jubril.
“It is not true that Rashidi Yekini suffered any mental problem. People peddling this rumour should stop immediately. Barrister Jubril stated while speaking in Ibadan during the weekend.
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