Okocha denies calling for NFF board dissolution, urges media accuracy
Former Super Eagles captain, Austin Okocha, has refuted claims that he called for the dissolution of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Board.
In a statement, Okocha clarified that he never granted an interview on the matter and urged journalists to verify information before publication.
The controversy arose after reports alleged that Okocha criticized the NFF for appointing Mali’s Eric Chelle as Super Eagles head coach.
Speaking on Lagos Talks FM, the football legend denied the allegations and emphasized the importance of accurate attribution.
“I didn’t grant any interview. I don’t know why the person that wrote that story quoted me,” Okocha told Vanguard.
“If you want to talk to me, you can call me. We might have similar opinions on certain things, but let it come from me.”
Okocha dismissed suggestions that he had called for the NFF Board’s removal, stressing that he respects the board’s electoral process.
“Even if things are wrong in the NFF, you cannot say they should dissolve the board. There is a process; they are elected,” he explained.
Highlighting his close ties with NFF figures such as Ibrahim Gusau, Victor Ikpeba, Garba Lawal, and Augustine Eguavoen, Okocha expressed a preference for private communication over public criticism.
“If I have anything to say, I’ll reach out and talk to them directly,” he said.
