Nigerian Football
NFF LAWYERS ALLEGE PERSECUTION AND PRESS TRIALS OF NFF MEN
Following the unfolding events concerning the running of football administration by the Nigeria Football Federation executives, their lawyers have issued a statement that NFF chieftains are being persecuted.
According to a four-page statement from the chambers of Mamman Nasir and co, the Special Presidential Investigative Panel (SPIP) headed by Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, was running an orchestrated media campaign against the NFF officials.
It went into the genesis of the event chronicling that on Saturday January 5 this year there was a syndicated story published in the online and print media that President Muhammadu Buhari had personally directed the prosecution of some “NFF elected officials for alleged but unspecified acts of corruption.”
The media release pointed out the presidency through its spokesperson, Garba Shehu, debunked the claim by stating that President Buhari had not ordered in any manner whatsoever that any NFF officials be prosecuted.
“However, on Monday the 7th day of January 2019 Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, the Chairman of the Special Presidential Investigative Panel (SPIP) granted a widely published radio interview stating that his Panel has established a prima facie case against the President of the NFF and certain officials of NFF.
“Chief Obono-Obla then went further to assert that his Panel will definitely arraign the named officials the next day, 8th January, 2019 and that he had ensured that their names were put on a travel ban list”, the four page statement initialed by Muhammad Sani Katu of the Mamman Nasir and co reports.
It continued that “curiously, a few hours after this radio interview by Chief Obono-Obla, documents were being published in a certain section of the media showing a ban list containing the names of the affected officials and the official covering letter from Chief Obono-Obla to the Immigration Service.
“On the said 8th January, 2019, our client sent legal representatives to the office of SPIP at Asokoro, Abuja to ascertain the exact circumstances of this rather strange public trial by Chief Obono-Obla, particularly as our client or the NFF officials had not been served any court charges or informed of any court arraignment date.
“Shockingly, it transpired subsequently, that no charge at all had been filed against our client, its President or any of NFF officials”, the NFF lawyers stated.
The statement reports that the Special Presidential Investigative Panel “unlawfully secured a warrant of arrest to effect the arrest of the affected NFF officials.
“It must be pointed out that while these publications of the news of the warrant of arrest started on Wednesday 9th January 2019, the date on the face of the eventually published warrant unlawfully obtained from a magistrate’s court in Abuja is Thursday 10th January 2019.
“The obvious conclusion here is that some interested persons have an unrestrained and direct access to Chief Obono-Obla, and have thus secured a front row seat that allows them a pre-knowledge of all steps to be taken by Chief Obono-Obla and or SPIP, which they gleefully publish ahead of these steps.”
The NFF lawyers stated further that “it is most curious that a warrant of arrest would be secured under obviously false grounds in these circumstances against our client’s officials, whose addresses are well known, when no invitation had been extended to these officials to appear at SPIP and have always cooperated fully with SPIP.
“Indeed as at the 8th January, 2019, Amaju Pinnick, President of NFF was in far away Senegal attending the AITEO-CAF continental awards ceremony, an international ceremony shown live on both Nigerian and international television.
“This fact was clearly communicated to officials of SPIP by the legal representatives sent by our client to SPIP office on Tuesday 8th January 2019.
“More grievous to the rights of our client and its officials is the fact that Chief Obono-Obla and SPIP went to secure a warrant of arrest from a magistrate court contrary to the clear provisions of the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provisions) Act, the law setting up the SPIP, that ONLY the Federal High Court is vested with the jurisdiction to issue warrants for the SPIP.
“It can only be concluded that this deviation was purposely to achieve the aim of avoiding the protection afforded everyone, including the affected NFF officials, under the same law that set up SPIP, which requires the SPIP to present a prima facie case to a judge of the Federal High Court to justify its case before a warrant of arrest may be issued under the hand of the judge.”
Continuing, the letter from the offices of Mamman Nasir and co states that “in the face of this obvious persecution and public show trial, our client took legal advice and lodged a petition with the office of the Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice as the overseeing ministry to SPIP for his intervention to ensure the due process of the Law adhered to.
“Our client and the affected NFF officials have also taken the additional step to file a suit, FC/ABJ/CS/17/2019 at the Federal High Court, Abuja Division (The only court statutory conferred with jurisdiction over SPIP matters under the enabling act).”
It explained that the “suit is to allow this whole sordid matter to be ventilated in the Court of the land and to check the oppression of our client and its officials.
“The office of the Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice has been served with the originating Court Processes of the suit, and has duly acknowledged the service bringing to its notice the pendency of the suit.”
Mamman Nasir and co averred that “rather strangely, however, Chief Obono-Obla refused to accept service for himself, even though he is the 2nd Defendant on record in the suit. Instead, Chief Obono-Obla directed that all the processes be served at the Asokoro office of SPIP, after reading through the processes.
“Acting, in a similar fashion, the lawyer attached to SPIP, also refused to accept service for SPIP.”
The NFF lawyers then raised the following posers:
- What would motivate this obvious determined and desperate public persecution of our client and its officials, inspite of their innocence?
- Why would Chief Okoi Obono-Obla insist on personally directing the course of a supposed SPIP investigation in a manner that denies our client and its officials the protection of the presumption of their innocence?
- Why would Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, and his subordinate at SPIP refuse to accept service of originating court processes, when they are named parties to the suit?
- How is it to be explained to Nigerians that a public officer supposedly enforcing the law refuses to go before the court of law?
- What is the purpose of the unlawful warrant of arrest obtained under these highly questionable circumstances, when no charge has been filed against our client and affected NFF officials or who have not been shown to have refused or failed to attend SPIP?
- Why has an online media mob been unleashed on our client and the affected NFF officials to avidly promote the pre-determined media reportage of the activities of Chief Obon-Obla and SPIP and ceaselessly tag the stories to His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR); the Presidency and its media aides, the ruling party, APC; the opposition parties; EFCC; ICPC; FIFA, CAF and their officials, among others? Is this to achieve a pre-determined purpose?
Mamman Nasir and co then stated that his chambers has “reserved for the consideration of the Federal High Court other more involving questions regarding the powers and legality of Chief Obono-Obla and SPIP to even investigate and institute prosecution proceedings against our client and the affected NFF officials in the first place.
The lawyers then wondered why the NFF case was made special. The lawyers wrote: “In the same vein it must appear curious that of the myriads of cases being investigated by SPIP, it is the NFF and clearly targeted officials that are subjected to this sustained media trial and persecution.”
As the countdown begins for the commencement of the 2026/27 Nigeria’s lead football league’s season, strategic partners of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), GTI Asset Management & Trust Limited, have welcomed plans by the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to significantly increase the prize money for Nigeria’s top-flight football competition, describing the move as a major step towards strengthening the domestic game.
The proposed increase, recently announced by the country’s football authorities, is expected to enhance competition among clubs and improve the league’s attractiveness to investors and corporate sponsors.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, said the initiative demonstrated a renewed commitment by Nigerian sports administrators to reposition the NPFL as a commercially viable and globally competitive league.
“GTI commends this progressive initiative. Increasing the NPFL prize money sends a strong statement of intent that will undoubtedly motivate clubs, improve competitiveness and send the right signals to investors and stakeholders about the future of Nigerian football,” Ekejiuba said.
He added that additional financial support from the NSC would further strengthen league operations and accelerate ongoing reforms.
GTI, which has been involved in the league’s restructuring and commercial development over the past four years, also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at transforming the NPFL into one of Africa’s leading football competitions.
According to Ekejiuba, the company has worked alongside the NPFL Board to improve corporate governance, enhance commercial opportunities and increase investor confidence in the league.
“The contributions of GTI Group cannot be overlooked. Over the last four years, we have remained steadfast in supporting the NPFL and helping to lay the foundation for a more structured, commercially viable and globally competitive football league,” he said.
The company stressed that collaboration among the NSC, NFF, NPFL Board and private-sector stakeholders would be critical to sustaining progress.
While welcoming the planned increase in prize money, GTI cautioned that deeper structural reforms would still be required to unlock the league’s full potential.
“It is not yet time to celebrate because there is still a great deal of work to be done,” Ekejiuba said.
He identified improved governance, club licensing, infrastructure development, broadcast production, content and data management, financial accountability and fan engagement as key areas requiring continued attention.
GTI said its long-term objective remains the creation of an accountable and transparent football ecosystem capable of attracting greater corporate investment and sponsorship into Nigerian football.
The company also noted that the current financial value of the NPFL, including the recently announced grant support, represents only a fraction of the league’s potential earnings.
“This collaboration between the NSC and NFF further complements the efforts of the NPFL Board and GTI. We welcome more partners to join this transformation journey because the current value, including the grant recently announced, represents less than two per cent of the league’s overall potential revenues which we expect to unlock over the next five years,” Ekejiuba said.
The latest endorsement from GTI comes as stakeholders intensify efforts to improve the commercial profile of the NPFL and position it as a stronger contributor to the growth of Nigeria’s football industry.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
Prominent Nigerians from all walks of life gathered at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Modakeke, on Friday to pay their final respects to former Super Eagles coach and ex-Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, whose burial rites drew dignitaries from across the country.
The solemn ceremony attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, political leaders, academics, philanthropists, religious figures, business executives, retired civil servants, former Nigeria internationals and football administrators, all united in celebrating the life and legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential football personalities.
Tributes poured in for the late tactician, remembered as a pioneer who broke barriers for indigenous coaches in Nigerian football. Onigbinde was the first Nigerian coach to lead the country’s senior national team to the Africa Cup of Nations final and the first indigenous coach to take the Super Eagles to the FIFA World Cup finals.
Clergy members who officiated at the funeral service described the Modakeke High Chief as a man of integrity, discipline and service, whose influence extended beyond Nigeria to the global football community.
Beyond his achievements with the national team, Onigbinde served as Technical Adviser to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association and later rose to become a Technical Advisor to FIFA.
Representing the NFF, former Super Eagles captain and current Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, paid glowing tribute to the late coach, describing him as a mentor who played a significant role in shaping his football career.
“Chief Onigbinde had a tremendous impact on my footballing career,” Eguavoen said. “He was a pathfinder who elevated the status of indigenous coaches through his intellect, professionalism and dedication to the game.
“The NFF recognises and appreciates his immense service to our country. He rose to the pinnacle of the coaching profession through hard work, discipline and commitment. He was a towering figure in coaching, not only in Nigeria but globally.
“He was the first Nigerian to lead our Eagles to silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations and the first indigenous coach to guide the team at the FIFA World Cup. Even after retirement, he continued to contribute immensely as a resource person during NFF coaching programmes. His legacy is enduring and impressive.”
Eguavoen added that the nation and the football community would continue to cherish the contributions of the late coach while praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Former Nigeria captain and member of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, Dr Felix Owolabi, also extolled Onigbinde’s qualities, describing him as a courageous leader, an exceptional mentor and a man of unquestionable integrity whose knowledge of football earned him widespread respect.
Among those present at the funeral were former NFF General Secretary Ambassador Fanny Amun, NFF Director of Communications Dr Ademola Olajire, former Super Eagles captain Mutiu Adepoju, representatives of the Osun State Government, traditional rulers, former international players and ex-members of Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, where Onigbinde made a lasting impact both as coach and administrator.
Dignitaries, football administrators, former internationals, traditional rulers and community leaders attend the burial rites of former Super Eagles coach and ex-Nigeria Football Federation Technical Director, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Modakeke, Osun State, on Friday, paying tribute to one of Nigeria’s most influential football figures.
The Nigeria Football Federation also demonstrated its support for the family by making a financial contribution towards the funeral arrangements.
Widely regarded as one of the architects of modern Nigerian coaching, Chief Onigbinde leaves behind a rich legacy of service, excellence and pioneering achievements that helped shape the development of football in Nigeria and beyond.
For many gathered in Modakeke on Friday, the farewell was not only a burial ceremony but also a celebration of a life devoted to the growth of the beautiful game.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
Nigerian Football
Osimhen Clarifies Absence from Super Eagles Friendlies, Dismisses Transfer Speculation
Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has moved to clarify the circumstances surrounding his absence from the Super Eagles’ forthcoming international friendly matches against Poland and Portugal, insisting that recent comments by head coach Eric Chelle were misunderstood.
The Galatasaray forward will not be part of Nigeria’s squad for the two high-profile friendlies this month, a development that sparked speculation after Chelle suggested that the striker was focused on resolving issues relating to a possible transfer.
While explaining the absence of key players from his squad, Chelle remarked that Osimhen could be on the verge of changing clubs, prompting widespread reports linking the Nigerian star to a move away from Turkish champions Galatasaray.
“We miss two players because Victor Osimhen may be about to change clubs,” Chelle had said.
The comments fuelled fresh speculation about the future of the 27-year-old striker, who has been linked with several top European clubs following another prolific season in Turkey.
However, Osimhen has now sought to calm the situation, revealing that he personally contacted the Super Eagles coach to discuss the remarks and clear up any misunderstanding.
In a statement posted on his Instagram Story, the Nigerian international stressed that Chelle’s comments had been taken out of context and did not reflect any intention to create controversy surrounding either his future or Galatasaray.
“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” Osimhen wrote.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create any controversy.
“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him. He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”
Osimhen’s statement effectively confirms that his absence from the friendlies against Poland and Portugal should not be interpreted as a sign of tension with the national team setup. Rather, it appears to be a mutually understood arrangement as the striker manages personal and professional commitments during the transfer window.
The former Napoli star remains a central figure in Chelle’s plans as Nigeria continues preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
For now, the Super Eagles will take on Poland and Portugal without their leading marksman. Still, Osimhen has reaffirmed both his commitment to Nigeria and his strong working relationship with the national team coach.
JOIN THE SPORTS VILLAGE SQUARE CHANNEL ON WHATSAPP:
https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
VIDEO: GHD Documentary Celebrates Kunle Solaja’s Remarkable Journey Across 10 FIFA World Cups
adidas Unveils Gold-Coloured TRIONDA FINAL Ball For World Cup’s Closing Stages
Hossam Hassan Blames Refereeing Decisions For Egypt’s Heartbreaking Exit
Breaking! Uzoho suspended from Super Eagles’ next match with Sierra Leone
No longer Super League as CAF changes name of its new clubs competition
NIGERIAN FOOTBALL CHIEF EXECUTIVE, SANUSI CHARGES NIGERIAN COACHES TO BE UPRIGHT, DILIGENT
- World Cup6 days ago
What a Load of Rubbish! How Senegal Threw Away a World Cup Dream
- World Cup2 days ago
Bizarre! FIFA makes U-turn to clear Balogun for US v Belgium World Cup clash following call from Trump
- World Cup1 week ago
Beyond the World Cup: A Journalist’s Reflection at Ground Zero
- World Cup6 days ago
Cry for Africa, My Beloved Continent: How four decades of World Cup heartbreak continue to haunt African football
- World Cup6 days ago
Celebrating a Decade of World Cup Coverage: A Tribute to Kunle Solaja
- World Cup4 days ago
Pharaohs End World Cup Knockout Hoodoo, Beat Australia on Penalties to Reach Last 16
- World Cup1 week ago
Mbappe Double Fires France into Last 16 as Sweden Swept Aside
- World Cup2 days ago
Article 27: The Little-Known FIFA Rule Behind Balogun’s World Cup Reprieve