The Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF) has confirmed that it has submitted a proper protest to FIFA over the eligibility of gamers fielded by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), alleging critical breaches of nationality and documentation guidelines.
Confirming the event, NFF Normal Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, revealed that Nigeria has challenged the legitimacy of some DRC gamers, citing the possession of a number of passports — a violation of FIFA laws.
“Sure, now we have formally written to FIFA. A number of the gamers in query are holding a number of passports, which isn’t permitted beneath FIFA guidelines,” Sanusi stated.
He defined that the difficulty goes past technical errors, describing the scenario as a deliberate misrepresentation.
“FIFA was made to consider that these gamers had been cleared to play, however that was not the case. What occurred was fraudulent,” Sanusi said.
In accordance with the NFF, the protest was lodged after detailed checks raised purple flags concerning documentation offered for sure DRC gamers.
“We adopted due course of. The proof we submitted raises critical questions that FIFA should examine,” Sanusi added.
The NFF Normal Secretary pressured that Nigeria’s motion was not pushed by rivalry, however by the necessity to shield the integrity of the sport.
“That is about equity, transparency and the foundations of soccer. Each nation should play by the identical guidelines,” he stated.
Sanusi additional revealed that FIFA’s response will decide the subsequent steps, with Nigeria ready to pursue the matter absolutely if required.
“We’re ready for FIFA’s choice. No matter final result, we consider the reality will come out,” he famous.
The protest has sparked debate throughout African soccer, with eligibility disputes turning into more and more frequent in worldwide competitions.
Sanusi warned that such practices, if left unchecked, may harm the credibility of African soccer globally.
“If these points are ignored, they undermine belief within the system. That’s the reason this protest is important,” he stated.
As FIFA evaluations the submission, the event provides one other layer of stress to African soccer governance at a time when nations are calling for stricter enforcement of eligibility guidelines.
For now, the NFF insists it has acted responsibly and inside the regulation — and awaits FIFA’s verdict on a case that would have vital implications past Nigeria and the DRC.
