Stephen Keshi, former Super Eagles Coach was buried in his hometown, Illah, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State on Frid, amidst eulogies from former colleagues.
He was lowered into his grave at exactly 2.02pm at his residence in Otu Ukpologwu Quarters amidst tears by children, family members and sympathisers, including former colleagues during his time as a player and coach.
At a sermon during a requiem mass at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah, Rev. Fr. Awele Arinze while extolling the virtues of Stephen Keshi, carpeted the reward system in the country which had failed to recognize hard work, sacrifice and dedication to duty.
Amaju Pinnick, President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), who was booed in Asaba during tributes to Keshion Thursday was absent, while no Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) member or any of the Super Eagles’ players coached by Keshi was present.
His Assistant as Eagles Coach, Daniel Amokachi was also absent, while there was no delegation from Togo and Mali, countries previously managed by Keshi.
Those present included Barr. Kingsley Otuaro, Delta State Deputy Governor, Hon. Onyemaechi Mrakpor representing Aniocha/ Oshimili Federal Constituency and several members of the State Executive Council and House of Assembly, while the Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung sent a representative, Mr. Chinyeaka Oha.
During the mass, his former colleagues in the Super Eagles and other ex-internationals, led by Austin Eguavoen performed songs for Keshi, which Eguavoen described as Keshi’s favourites songs, some of which included songs by the Nigeria Supporters Club.
Eguavoen debunked the notion that a mafia existed in the Super Eagles, saying: “he was our leader but it is unthinkable to use past tense for him now which makes our hearts very heavy. There was no mafia in the Eagles but because we respected him and rallied around him due to his qualities, people wondered why he was so influential in the team.”
Keshi’s former colleagues and ex footballers present included Austin Eguavoen, Peter Rufai, Uche Okechukwu, Henry Nwosu, Victor Ikpeba, Taribo West, Mutiu Adepoju, Aloy Agu, Ben Iroha and Austin Popo.
Earlier, the Illah traditional council had accorded him last respects due to a traditional chief at the palace of the Ogbelani of Illah as the Onwa na Eti Li Ora or the moon that shines upon the community
Guests were entertained at Omorka Primary School, Illah, while an outing service/thanksgiving mass will be held at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Illah tomorrow, 31st July, 2016.
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