Follow Us On Google
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that its investigation into the utilisation of the ₦12 billion Federal Government intervention fund released to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is still ongoing.
EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale confirmed the development on Thursday while responding to inquiries about the probe.
“Investigation is ongoing on the matter,” Oyewale said.
The development follows reports that the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (INEC) had commenced separate investigations into the ₦12 billion intervention fund approved by President Bola Tinubu in 2024.
The fund was released to settle outstanding wages and bonuses owed to players of Nigeria’s national teams.
A top source familiar with the matter told Punch on Thursday that investigators had invited some officials linked to the fund and obtained statements from them.
The source, however, did not disclose the identities of the officials or confirm whether the investigators had made any arrests.
Naija News reports that the probe comes amid significant changes at the NFF following the resignation of its president, Ibrahim Gusau, after three years and 11 months in office.
Gusau announced his resignation at a news conference in Abuja, saying he made the decision after consulting his family and friends.
“I have decided to resign my position as the president of NFF, after consultations with my family and friends,” he said.
“I have also advised my board members, those who are willing, to resign as well.”
The outgoing NFF president said he could not immediately confirm how many board members had followed his example, explaining that those who intended to resign had not yet communicated their decisions directly to him.
His resignation came after growing concerns over the recent performances of Nigeria’s national teams. The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups, while the Super Falcons also missed out on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Nigeria’s youth teams also struggled, with the Golden Eaglets failing to qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in three consecutive editions.
Despite his departure, Gusau said he remained ready to contribute to the development of Nigerian football.
“For me, I want to make it clear that, by the grace of God, we will continue to give our contribution,” he said.
“Our experience, connections and relationships within African football will never go in vain. We will do our best to ensure that whenever we are needed, we will contribute to the progress of Nigerian football.”
What is his reason for resigning, is he saying he is incapable of leadership, did he come from outside the country or he was living here when he accepted the position, the man has questions to answer