A disgrace - Peter Obi slams government over unpaid allowances to Super Eagles Players

Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader, Peter Obi, has expressed disappointment over the Super Eagles’ decision to skip training ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon, citing unpaid allowances.

The Super Eagles reportedly boycotted their training session in Rabat, Morocco, on Tuesday due to unpaid bonuses and allowances ahead of their World Cup playoff match against Gabon.

The protest has drawn widespread criticism of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Ministry of Sports, with fans and analysts urging immediate resolution to avoid disrupting the team’s World Cup campaign.

In a statement shared on his verified social media account on Wednesday, Obi described the situation as “truly unfortunate,” condemning the government’s misplaced priorities and poor handling of national sports heroes.

Obi said it was unacceptable that players who consistently give their best to represent Nigeria are being owed their entitlements. At the same time, funds are regularly wasted on political patronage and unnecessary expenses.

“It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles, who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation, are being owed their allowances,” he said.

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 State governor emphasised that those serving the nation must be treated with dignity, adding that neglecting them sends a dangerous message to young Nigerians about the value of hard work and patriotism.

“When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth that hard work and service are not rewarded. Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” Obi stated.