Sam Okwaraji’s mother, Lady Janet dies at 83 after the NFF promised to take care of her
Lady Janet Okwaraji, the mother of the late Nigerian football legend, Sam Okwaraji has died at the age of 83. The deceased who had suffered grief for many years over the sudden death of her son who died during a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Angola on August 12, 1989, was confirmed dead on Sunday, by her eldest son, Patrick.
Less than a month before her death, the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF had approved the payment of a monthly stipend to her and the mother of late Rashidi Yekini. Prior to the NFF’s gesture, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, had visited the late Janet Okwaraji at her home in Enugu with some gift items.
Though no date has been fixed for her funeral, Patrick revealed that the family has sent a letter to the Minister of Youth and Sports Development as well as the NFF, informing them of the incident.
A statement by the presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina conveyed Buhari’s condolence to the Okwaraji family on the loss of the matriarch. Lady Okwaraji had been unhappy with the government for abandoning the family after the death of her son 31 years ago.
However, Adesina said Buhari believes that the mother who lost her son in such a tragic circumstance will be remembered for her sacrifice.
“The President believes Lady Okwaraji, whose son, Samuel, died in August 1989 while playing for the Super Eagles in a World Cup qualifier, will always be remembered for the sacrifices of the family for the nation,” Adesina said.
Speaking with The Nation on Sunday, Patrick Okwaraji said he would meet with his people at Umudioka Community in Orlu, Imo state to discuss the next move for the funeral of their late mother.
