The world football governing body, FIFA has directed the Secretariat of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to explain the circumstances leading to the resignation of the former president, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau.
A statement signed by FIFA Secretary General, Mattias Grafstrom on behalf FIFA Council, dated September 1, acknowledged the resignation of Gusau but needed more clarification.
“FIFA has taken note with great concern of reports indicating that the President of the Nigeria 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 removal of elected officials constitutes a violation of these provisions and may lead to sanctions as stipulated in Article 13 of the FIFA Statutes,” the statement reads.
The letter, which was addressed the President of the NFF and Chairman of National Sports Commission (NSC) wanted clarification that Ibrahim Gusau’s resignation was voluntary and free from external pressure, official clarification from the Federal Government of Nigeria regarding 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 compel the FIFA Council to consider the suspension of the Nigeria Football Federation from all FIFA and CAF competitions and activities with immediate effect.
“In such an event, a FIFA/CAF Normalisation Committee would be appointed to run the daily affairs of the NFF and to organize elections in accordance with 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.
