Human rights activist and former Senator, who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, Shehu Sani, has visited the Kaduna home of the late football legend Ayo Ogunlana, during which he extended his condolences to the wife and family members.
Senator Sani described the late Ogunlana as a man who was an inspiration to many young people, both during his football playing days and after his retirement from the sport.
While comforting the wife and family members over their painful loss, the Senator said, “I have always inquired about him and wanted to see him recently, but I could not visit until I came across a flyer announcing his death.
“In fact, even when I saw the flyer regarding his demise, I could hardly believe it.
I sent the flyer to Tijanni Babangida and Daniel Amokachi to confirm the situation, which they sadly verified.
“Madam, the death of your husband is painful to us all. It affects not just you and the children, but many others as well. We cannot question God. Please take heart and be strong for your children and grandchildren left behind.
“I urge that his legacies be sustained even after his passing, and I shall be interested in establishing a foundation in his honour,” he assured the wife.
The Senator stressed, “It is a credit to your husband that he is no longer with us and yet people continue to speak highly of him. He has left behind big shoes to fill; we must protect his legacies,” he encouraged.
“Take heart. You are a source of comfort created to be together. Your late husband found his missing rib in you. Having enjoyed a peaceful marriage for over 47 years, God will comfort you,” the Senator prayed.
Mrs Ogunlana, tearful, thanked the Senator for taking the time to visit and console them. She shared that her husband, who died on Friday, 14th February—a day often celebrated as Valentine’s Day—was not ill prior to his passing.
She recalled fond memories, describing her late husband as a true friend, insisting, “He was never sick. On that fateful day, he returned from his early morning jog and expressed discomfort, asking me to assist him inside as he was unable to walk. We helped him to a chair in the living room.
“Shortly after sitting, he stretched out on the floor and then insisted on being taken to the bedroom. I immediately called the doctor, who instructed me to administer medication, but there was no response. We rushed him to hospital, and sadly, that marked the end of my husband,” she recounted.
“My husband was a truthful man; that is one thing I can affirm about him. We have lived as friends for 47 years in marriage, and God has kept us together, through his playing days and blessed us with children and grandchildren. He was a loving husband and father,” she narrated.
The late Ogunlana was a remarkable and vibrant footballer who served the country in various capacities and received several accolades. In his playing days, he was affectionately known as “Dodo Mayana” and a “free-kick specialist” due to his scoring ability.
