'I am close to Gusau, Ikpeba, Lawal, Eguavoen' - Okocha sets record straight on NFF Board's removal

Former Super Eagles captain, Austin Okocha, has firmly dismissed reports claiming that he called for the dissolution of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Board. 

In a recent statement, Okocha set the record straight, emphasizing that he never granted an interview to any media outlet regarding the NFF's leadership. 

He also appealed to journalists to refrain from spreading falsehoods about him.

The controversy began when an online report quoted Okocha as criticizing the NFF for appointing Mali's Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles. 

In the interview aired on Lagos Talks FM, Okocha vehemently denied the allegations.

"I didn’t grant any interview. I don’t know why the person that wrote that story quoted me," Okocha told Vanguard. 

He stressed that while he might share similar opinions on certain issues, it is important that those opinions are attributed directly to him. 

"If you want to talk to me, you can call me. We might have similar opinions on certain things, but let it come from me," he stated.

The former Bolton Wanderers star also addressed claims about his alleged call for the NFF Board’s removal, which has caused a stir within the Nigerian football community. 

Okocha clarified that while he has always been outspoken when it comes to football matters, he respects the process of how the NFF Board is structured.

"Even if you know that things are wrong in the NFF, you cannot say they should dissolve the NFF Board. There is a process; they are elected," Okocha explained. 

His comments indicate his understanding of the formalities involved in the governance of Nigerian football, and his desire to engage in a more constructive dialogue with the NFF leadership.

Okocha also expressed his close relationship with key figures within the NFF. 

"I am close to (Ibrahim) Gusau, Victor (Ikpeba), Garba (Lawal) and (Augustine) Eguavoen and being a football person, if I have anything to say, I’ll reach out and talk to them," he remarked. 

The football icon’s statement highlights his preference for direct communication over public statements, which he believes can be misinterpreted or distorted.

"I don’t have to communicate to them through the press. If I talk to them and they don’t listen or don’t see value in what I’m saying, then I can go public,” he added. 

This statement emphasises  Okocha’s commitment to addressing issues with the relevant parties before taking matters to the public.

Okocha’s appeal for accurate reporting and direct engagement is not only a call for media responsibility but also reflects his ongoing involvement in Nigerian football. 

Despite stepping away from the pitch, Okocha continues to maintain a significant influence on the sport in the country, offering his insights and advice when necessary.

Wale Adejumo

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