.…Says Effort Lack Transparency And Genuine Stakeholder Engagement
The President of the Authentic Nigeria Football & Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC), Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi, has expressed concerns over the recent reconciliation efforts led by the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Speaking from London, where he led ANFASSC members in support of the Super Eagles at the Unity Cup, Ogunjimi questioned the transparency and inclusivity of the IMC’s approach.
According to Ogunjimi, the recent stakeholders’ meeting held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, featured sponsorship branding from companies such as Wakanow, Cards, and Kalabash, without the knowledge or involvement of the signatories to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on February 13. This, he said, raises questions about the credibility of the process.
Ogunjimi also noted that several key figures who were part of the MOU, including himself, were not present at the meeting, which undermines the legitimacy of the reconciliation efforts.
He emphasized that unity must be built on mutual respect, honest collaboration, and the involvement of primary stakeholders.
On legal and governance issues, Ogunjimi reaffirmed that the Supporters Clubs are registered organizations under Nigerian law and are not subject to unilateral directives.
He cited a recent meeting with the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, who acknowledged the independence of these groups.
Ogunjimi concluded by aligning with the NSC’s position that all Supporters Clubs can work together during national team matches, without requiring the dissolution or merger of existing groups.
He stressed that unity should be built on trust, inclusivity, and respect for established organizations, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all solution.
