FIFA Licensed Agent and gamers’ welfare advocate, Mr. Eddie Iseri Ogbemudia, has strongly criticized the management of the Nigeria Premier Soccer League (NPFL) over its dealing with of contractual disputes and participant welfare.
His feedback heart on the case of Niger Tornadoes’ former participant, Micheal Anthony Adoyi, whose contract was reportedly terminated unlawfully, with directives despatched to him by no means to return to the membership.
In an unique chat with Sports247, Ogbemudia expressed disappointment on the therapy meted out to the younger footballer.
He described it as a stain on the Minna-based membership and a mirrored image of NPFL’s poor administration underneath Chairman Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye and Chief Working Officer Chief Davidson Owumi.
“I not too long ago learn the information in regards to the younger lad handled badly by Niger Tornadoes and likewise the position NPFL performed within the dispute,” Ogbemudia stated.
“With the scenario of that participant, it’s clear that NPFL administration doesn’t have the curiosity of the league’s improvement at coronary heart.”
Highlighting the central position of footballers, Ogbemudia careworn:
“Everywhere in the world, gamers are an important piece of soccer. With out gamers, there could be no league, no NFF, CAF, or FIFA. Why then deal with these professionals, who’re breadwinners, as beggars?”
The gamers’ advocate additional alleged that a number of complaints of contractual breaches lodged with the NPFL have been ignored, elevating questions in regards to the league’s equity and dedication to gamers’ welfare.
Drawing a comparability, he famous:
“The NNL not too long ago wrote to all collaborating groups to pay up their indebtedness to gamers and officers. I simply hope they implement it, not like what we see within the prime tier, NPFL.”
Concluding, Ogbemudia described the scenario as “pathetic,” lamenting the persistent tradition of neglect in Nigerian soccer.
Will probably be recalled that in January 2025, the NPFL directed Niger Tornadoes FC to pay Adoyi the sum of ₦1,350,000.
The directive said that failure to conform would end in deductions from the membership’s sponsorship cost within the 2024/2025 season. Nevertheless, the cost is but to be made to the participant as of as we speak, fourth week into new season.
