Family Remembers Ogedegbe

Former goalkeeper of the Super Eagles, Best Ogedegbe who died two years ago at age 55, was yesterday remembered by his family members.

Ogedegbe died on Monday, 28 September, 2009. In a statement signed by Ogedegbe’s wife, Sade, the family said that whatever happens, Ogedegbe cannot be forgotten because of his contribution to football development in the country.

Sade noted that though it was two years since the ex-goalkeeper died, it is as if he is still alive.

“My husband was a blessing to his family. He was a gem that we have really missed and I know the country has also missed him too. But his work lives after him. Can he be forgotten when we think of the glory he joined with others to bring to the country when the Super Eagles won the highly coveted Africa Cup of Nations in 1980?”

Sade stated that one of the things the country can do to make her happy is to immortalise her husband in any way.

She noted that, “it is very bad that we easily forget our heroes and heroines. This is the reason it is difficult for Nigerians to be patriotic to Nigeria.”

Sade further disclosed that the day she missed her husband most was the day her first child and daughter got married and her husband did not witness it. “If anybody had told me that my husband will not be at his daughter’s wedding, I will disagree and argue against it but I know that wherever he is, he keeps watch over all of us because he cannot forget us. May his soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen”.

The former IICC, now 3SC of Ibadan star, Ogedegbe died of brain turmour in 2009 at University College Hospital, (UCH) Ibadan after an eye operation.

—Gbenro Adesina/Ibadan