FIFA has demanded an explanation from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the Federal Government over the circumstances surrounding the resignation of former NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau.
In a letter dated September 1, FIFA expressed concern over reports that Gusau’s resignation may have followed a directive from the Presidency and warned that Nigeria could face suspension from international football if the matter is not satisfactorily addressed.
The world football governing body said the NFF must provide clarification within seven days and stressed that football associations are required to operate independently of government interference.
FIFA referred to Articles 13, 14 and 19 of its statutes, which protect the autonomy of member associations and prohibit third-party intervention in their internal affairs.
As part of its demands, FIFA wants confirmation that Gusau resigned voluntarily and without external pressure. It also requested an explanation from the Federal Government regarding the circumstances that led to his departure.
The organization further wants assurances that the NFF will continue to function according to its own statutes and FIFA regulations.
Gusau, alongside NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and other members of the federation’s Executive Committee, resigned on August 27, deepening an already significant leadership crisis within Nigerian football.
The development also led to the suspension of the NFF Elective Congress scheduled for September 27 in Lafia, where Gusau had reportedly been positioned as the leading candidate.
FIFA warned that failure to resolve the concerns could prompt its Council to suspend the NFF from FIFA and CAF competitions. Such a move could also result in the appointment of a FIFA/CAF Normalization Committee to oversee the federation and organize new elections.
The latest warning adds further uncertainty to the future of Nigerian football as stakeholders await clarification from both the NFF and the Federal Government.
