Nigerian Football Federation declines comment on fresh match-fixing allegations

Nigeria has been implicated in a string of match-fixing scandals.

Despite being investigated for its possible role in fixing matches involving the Super Eagles, the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, has refused to comment on the fresh allegations.

Nigeria’s friendly against Scotland last week, which ended 2-2, is under investigation for suspected fixing.

The New York Times also published a report over the weekend that the friendly match between the Super Eagles and North Korea on the eve of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa was doctored.

Nigeria won the friendly against the North Korean side by 3-1.

Another friendly match between Nigeria and Argentina, officiated by controversial Nigerien referee, Ibrahim Chaibou, was also allegedly fixed. Nigeria won the match, played in Abuja, 4-1.

When PREMIUM TIMES visited the NFF headquarters in Abuja on Monday, its General Secretary, Musa Amadu, said he would not comment on the fresh accusations.

“Yes I saw the story and I have nothing to say to you about the issue on match-fixing, No comment,” he snapped.

The footballing body had earlier been mentioned by the unrepentant Singaporean match fixer, Wilson Raj Perusal, who claimed to have helped Nigeria qualify for the South Africa 2010 World Cup.

The NFF denied that claim.

Recently, a potential match fixer simply identified as Chukwuma Okoroji was caught on film suggesting he could arrange a yellow card for a World Cup game for more than £41,000 and a penalty for £81,000.

The self-acclaimed football agent was caught telling an undercover reporter that he could fix games and organise certain outcomes during the World Cup which starts in Brazil in ten days time.

Super Eagles Midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi, who was mentioned in the alleged match-fixing plan, denied it on his twitter handle, @OnaziOgenyi.

“My attention has been drawn to a publication relating to issues about match-fixing,” Onazi posted on the social media site,” he tweeted.

“First, let me state unequivocally that I have no link whatsoever to any individual or group with ties to the corrupt issues of match fixing.

“A certain Mr. Okoroji was mentioned in the publication. My previous contact with Mr Okoroji was based on the fact that we are both Nigerians. As a matter of fact, I am surprised to learn that Mr Okoroji is a Fifa-licensed agent.

“On the day of this meeting, he had earlier told me that his associates had an endorsement proposition for my consideration.

“I duly informed my friend who manages my affairs.

“When I got to the meeting, I found out it was all about fixing matches. I told them a resounding NO and left.”

Nigeria, one of Africa’s five representatives, will play her first match at the Brazil World Cup on June 16.