Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the federal government over reports that the Super Eagles boycotted training ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon due to unpaid allowances.
Obi, in a post on X on Wednesday, expressed disappointment that players representing Nigeria were being owed despite their sacrifices.
“It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation are being owed their allowances,” he wrote.
He added, “We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage, yet we cannot pay those who patriotically raise our flag, bring us pride, and serve with dedication. That is what is found in a now disgraced country.”
The former Anambra governor described the situation as shameful and warned that it sends a wrong signal to the younger generation.
“When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth. Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” Obi said.
Reports on Tuesday said the Super Eagles and their backroom staff refused to train in Rabat, Morocco, over unpaid bonuses and allowances.
The protest came just two days before Nigeria’s crucial semi-final clash with Gabon in the Africa World Cup Playoff Tournament at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, a match seen as vital to Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
