Former England striker John Fashanu is taking authorized motion towards the Nigerian police, claiming they broken his possibilities of turning into head coach of the Tremendous Eagles.
Fashanu, who as soon as performed for Aston Villa and Wimbledon, says he was in talks for the Tremendous Eagles job earlier than his arrest over a land dispute in Abuja. He believes the incident has destroyed his popularity in Nigeria.
The 62-year-old was arrested in December 2024 alongside along with his spouse, Vivian, and his lawyer, Chinyere Chigbu. The arrest was linked to a disagreement over a 22-acre piece of land that Fashanu says he had agreed to promote for over £500,000.
Fashanu says that when he and his lawyer went to kind out the matter, they have been detained by the police as an alternative. He now faces accusations of conspiracy, intimidation, trespassing, and acquiring property by false pretence—all of which he strongly denies.
“My title has been dragged by means of the mud,” Fashanu mentioned. “Earlier than this arrest, I used to be being thought-about for the Tremendous Eagles teaching job. This scandal has spoilt my picture and ruined that chance.”
Fashanu additionally claims he was held on the police station for a number of hours on December 16 and was not absolutely launched till December 19. He says his cellphone was seized and his actions have been restricted.
Now, he has filed a ₦201 million lawsuit towards 12 senior cops, together with Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police. Fashanu is asking for compensation for what he describes as wrongful arrest and a breach of his human rights.
Talking by means of his lawyer, Mr Chigbu, Fashanu mentioned that his arrest was pointless as a result of the land difficulty was a civil matter, not a prison case. He believes your entire occasion was dealt with badly and has prompted him private {and professional} hurt.
“It was a enterprise disagreement, however the police handled it like a criminal offense,” mentioned Chigbu. “Additionally they arrested his spouse and me with none good motive.”
Fashanu, who can be identified by the title “Ambassador Fashanu” for his providers to sports activities and tourism, is searching for justice within the Federal Excessive Courtroom in Abuja. The case has been adjourned till April 10, giving the police extra time to reply to his claims.
Fashanu says he’s decided to clear his title and restore his popularity as he continues to reside in Nigeria.
