National Embarrassment’: Peter Obi Slams Non-Payment of Super eagle

Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly criticised the continued non-payment of match allowances owed to Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles. Describing the situation as a “national embarrassment,” Peter Obi said the failure to pay the team’s agreed bonuses undermines both morale and the country’s international reputation. His comments, shared through his official social media channels, sparked a heated exchange with presidential aide Bayo Onanuga and renewed debate over government priorities in sports administration.

Peter Obi Condemns Delay, Questions National Priorities

In his statement, Peter Obi expressed concern that Nigeria continues to produce negative headlines at a time when citizens urgently need unity and uplifting moments. He praised the Super Eagles for delivering strong performances in recent matches, noting that their victories have provided hope and emotional relief for Nigerians at home and abroad.

Despite this, the team is reportedly facing unpaid allowances—an issue Obi said should never arise for a national squad representing the country on the continental stage. He questioned the government’s spending priorities, arguing that while enormous debts are written off for government agencies and political allies, basic obligations to national representatives remain unmet.

Peter Obi warned that the development not only affects player morale but also tarnishes Nigeria’s global image. He insisted that the players deserve to compete without avoidable distractions, especially as they prepare for a crucial quarter-final encounter. He concluded by reiterating his advocacy for national accountability, saying: “A New Nigeria is possible.”

Onanuga Fires Back, Calls Obi ‘Bitter’

Presidential adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, reacted sharply to Peter Obi’s statement. Commenting under Obi’s post on X, Onanuga accused the former governor of politicising every national issue. He suggested that Obi was attempting to “weaponise” the Super Eagles’ bonus situation for political gain.

Onanuga’s remarks immediately drew public attention, widening the debate over whether Obi’s criticism was appropriate civic engagement or politically motivated commentary. The exchange underscored deepening political tensions between prominent figures from the 2023 election cycle and the current administration.

Government Responds, Says Bottlenecks Resolved

Amid the growing controversy, the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, announced that the issues delaying payment of the players’ bonuses had been resolved. Posting via her official X account, she explained that the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), had cleared foreign exchange-related hurdles that previously obstructed payments.

Uzoka-Anite assured the public that administrative processes for the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 entitlements had been streamlined. She emphasized that the government remained committed to ensuring players receive their payments promptly going forward, a move intended to restore confidence and calm tensions around the matter.