Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s star striker, finds himself in hot water with the national team following a social media clash with recently departed coach Finidi George.
The drama unfolded after Nigeria’s shaky start to World Cup qualifiers, with a draw and a loss. George, under increasing pressure, resigned and then cast doubt on Osimhen’s dedication, claiming the Napoli striker feigned injury to miss the crucial qualifiers.
Osimhen, fuming at the accusations, took to Instagram. He not only denied faking an injury but also threatened to expose evidence to the contrary. The controversy reached a fever pitch when Osimhen went live, publicly criticizing and insulting George.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is not taking this lightly. Local media report a disciplinary committee will be formed to assess Osimhen’s actions. Potential punishments range from a slap on the wrist to a suspension from future matches.
Osimhen’s behavior has been deemed disrespectful and irresponsible by many. Some, like ex-goalkeeper Idah Peterside, have called for Osimhen to be banned from the Nigerian national team while demanding an apology from the player to “former footballers, NFF, Finidi, and Nigerians.”
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
