Explain mass resignation of NFF board or face ban: Fifa threatens Nigeria

World football’s governing body, FIFA, has ordered the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) Secretariat to explain the circumstances that led to the resignation of former president, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau.

A statement signed by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom on behalf of the FIFA Council, dated September 1, acknowledged Gusau’s resignation but needed further clarification.

“FIFA has noted with great concern reports that the President of the Nigerian Football Federation, Mr. Ibrahim Gusau, has tendered his resignation following a directive from the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“In accordance with Article 14 and Article 19 of the FIFA Statutes, all member associations must manage their affairs independently and without undue influence from third parties, including government authorities.

“Any intervention by public authorities that results in the dismissal of elected officials constitutes a violation of these provisions and may give rise to sanctions as stipulated in Article 13 of the FIFA Statutes,” the statement read.

The letter, addressed to the NFF President and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), wanted clarification that Ibrahim Gusau’s resignation was voluntary and free of external pressure, official clarification from the Federal Government of Nigeria on the circumstances surrounding this development and assurance that the NFF will continue to operate in accordance with its statutes and FIFA regulations.

Failure to provide satisfactory clarification may force the FIFA Council to consider suspending the Nigerian Football Federation from all FIFA and CAF competitions and activities with immediate effect.

“In such a case, a FIFA/CAF Normalization Committee would be appointed to manage the daily affairs of the NFF and organize elections in accordance with the FIFA Statutes,” the statement said, adding that FIFA remains committed to supporting Nigerian football and urges all stakeholders to respect the autonomy of the NFF.

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