Fake News!” – NFF Fires Back At 24-Hour Ultimatum To Resign

Essien reportedly described the report as “fake news” in a conversation with Vanguard, insisting that no such directive had been issued by the Federal Government.

The denial follows reports suggesting that the Ibrahim Gusau-led NFF had been ordered to vacate office within 24 hours.

The controversy comes as the NFF faces an ongoing investigation into the management of a ₦12 billion intervention fund released by the Federal Government to settle players’ wages and bonuses.

The probe is being conducted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

The investigation reportedly began after the NFF allegedly declined to grant access to documents relating to the management and expenditure of the funds, stating that the records had already been submitted to the two anti-corruption agencies.

Amid the controversy, reports also emerged that the National Sports Commission (NSC) had directed the NFF executive committee to resign.

The reported move was said to have followed growing concerns among Nigerians over the administration and management of football in the country.

However, Essien has rejected the claim, maintaining that the reported resignation directive is untrue.

2026 World Cup, 2027 WAFCON Setbacks

The NFF has faced mounting criticism following the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the Super Falcons also missed out on qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

The simultaneous failure of Nigeria’s senior men’s and women’s teams to qualify for their respective World Cups represents an unprecedented setback for the country.

Earlier reports indicated that officials of the NSC visited the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday night to brief the government on the crisis in Nigerian football. A further meeting with the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, was also expected.

The latest controversy comes just weeks before the NFF elections scheduled for September 27, with incumbent president Ibrahim Gusau seeking another four-year term.