Lawal, Adepoju recall moments with late Rashidi Yekini

Former Nigeria internationals Garba Lawal and Mutiu Adepoju have recalled their moments with late Rasheed Yekini whose posthumous 60th anniversary was held yesterday.

Lawal said Yekini was his idol and happy he played alongside the star player he used to watch with awe at UNTL, Kaduna, adding his joy knew no bounds when he got the chance to play alongside the ‘gangling striker’ in the Super Eagles between 1997 and 1998.

“Rasheed Yekini was my idol while still a teenager. He played for UNTL, Kaduna because he was born and bred there. He was one of the team’s best players and as a youngster i was filled with joy to learn the trade from him."

“He was very humane. And he was also very humble and always willing to make sacrifices for the good of all. He was our hero.

“It was no surprise when he left UNTL, Kaduna for Shooting Stars, the person that recommended to the Ibadan club, Sani Nagogo changed the name of his club to Shooting Stars of Ade because of his love for Yekini.”

Yekini was born on October 23rd , 1963 but died on May 4th , 2012.

Speaking on his posthumous 60th birthday, Adepoju said the late Kwara State-born attacker was a through bred professional both on and off the pitch, adding there was no dull moments around Yekini because of his jovial disposition.

“It is very unfortunate that Yekini is gone and we can only celebrate his fond memories. He had to be celebrated posthumously because he could have been 60 years today (yesterday).

“We will continue to wish him well in death. He was very jovial and fun to be around. He was committed too to a fault. He was a great professional. We will continue to miss him.”



FI