FIFA Threatens to Ban NFF

The world’s governing body FIFA has responded with a letter to the tussle for leadership within the Nigeria Football Federation.

In a letter sent to the recognized president, Amaju Pinnick, Fifa on April 11 reminded the NFF president that according to articles 13 and 17 of the Fifa statutes, all member associations have to manage their affairs independently and with no influence from third parties.

In addition and according to article 68 of the FIFA statutes, recourse to ordinary courts of law is prohibited unless specifically provided for in the FIFA regulations.

Recall that a federal High Court in Jos sacked the Amaju Pinnick-led board and ordered Ambassador Chris Giwa to resume office in his stead as president on Friday April 8.

“Fifa Statutes, all members associations have to manage their affairs independently and with no influence from third parties. In addition and according to article 68 of the FIFA Statutes, recourse to ordinary courts of law is prohibited unless specifically provided for in the FIFA regulations. Furthermore, it is the duty of each member association to ensure that these provisions are implemented by its members and possibly take sanction against those which fail to respect these obligations.”

The FIFA body warns Nigeria against government interference in football administration.

“In view of the above, the decision of the Federal High Court in Jos, if implemented, would likely be considered as interference in the internal affairs of the NFF and the case would be brought to the highest authorities of FIFA for consideration of sanctions, including the suspension of the NFF”, the letter included.

In the letter, it was also mentioned that the case was brought up to the Court of Arbitration for Sports but was dismissed.

“Lastly, we would like to stress that the plaintiff in question already filed an appeal in relation to the same matter with the highest judicial sport authorities, the Court of Arbitration for sport (CAS), and that said appeal was dismissed by the CAS on 18 May 2015.”

“We thank you for taking note of the above and kindly ask you to keep us informed of any development”, the letter concluded.