Monday Igbuya, speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, on Thursday joined football administrators, players, coaches and political leaders to offer tribute to Stephen Keshi, former Super Eagles captain and coach. Igbuya said the death of Keshi had created a huge vacuum in Nigerian football.

Speaking during the lying-in-state at Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Igbuya described Keshi as a patriotic Nigerian and a great Deltan. He said the late Keshi’s notable contributions to the development and progress of football within and outside the country would not be forgotten. “His death is a monumental national loss. It is very sad. It is very painful. He was a great footballer and coach. He made Delta State proud. He did the nation and the youth proud by standing out in the crowd not only as a skillful player but a coach imbued with maturity. We will definitely miss him,” Igbuya said.

He called on family members, friends and associates of the Big Boss to take solace in the fact that the late footballer and coach played the parts assigned to him thoroughly.

The speaker prayed God to grant Keshi an eternal rest in peace and a worthy place in Paradise. “Please accept the condolences of the Delta State House of Assembly,” he added.