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2025 WCQ: ‘It is quite unfortunate’ – Obi slams FG over Super Eagles’ unpaid allowances

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Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the Federal Government over reports that the Super Eagles boycotted training ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Obi expressed disappointment that Nigerian players, who have continued to serve the country with dedication, are still being owed allowances.

He described the situation as unfair and urged the government to fulfil its obligations to the team before the crucial match.

“It is truly unfortunate that our Super Eagles who consistently give their best in representing our dear nation, are being owed their allowances,” he wrote.

“We always seem to find money to waste on needless lavish spending and political patronage, yet we cannot pay those who patriotically raise our flag, bring us pride, and serve with dedication. That is what is found in a now disgraced country.”

The former Anambra governor described the situation as shameful, saying it sends the wrong signal to young Nigerians that “hard work and service are not rewarded.”

He urged the authorities to promptly resolve the issue and ensure that athletes are treated with dignity and respect.

“When those who serve their country are not treated with dignity, it sends the wrong message to our youth. Those who represent Nigeria deserve to be paid promptly and treated with respect. We must do better,” Obi added.

Nigeria’s preparations for the playoff suffered a major setback on Tuesday when the entire squad, including backroom staff, refused to train in Rabat, Morocco, over unpaid allowances and bonuses.

The protest, according to reports was linked to unresolved financial issues with football authorities.

The standoff comes just two days before Nigeria faces Gabon in the semi-final of the Africa World Cup Playoff Tournament at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat — a match seen as crucial to the Super Eagles’ qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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Pearl Essien is a digital content creator and a graduate of the prestigious University of Calabar. With over four years of experience in writing, she specializes in crafting engaging stories that inform and inspire readers. Outside of her work, Pearl enjoys storytelling, reading, and playing table tennis, bringing the same curiosity and passion to her hobbies as she does to her writing.

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