Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticised the non-payment of match allowances to Super Eagles players, describing it as an unnecessary embarrassment to the country.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Wednesday, Obi expressed disappointment that the national team is being subjected to avoidable distractions ahead of a crucial quarter-final encounter.
The former Anambra State governor said the Super Eagles, who have been lifting the nation’s spirit through their performances, do not deserve such treatment, stressing that Nigeria must learn to honour its commitments.
Obi questioned why the country continues to generate negative headlines, especially at a time when Nigerians are in need of unity and positive news.
According to him, it is unacceptable that a nation capable of writing off trillions of naira in debts for government agencies and political allies, and spending heavily on self-serving projects, is unable to pay basic match bonuses owed to its players.
He added that Nigeria’s international image is being damaged by the continued failure to settle agreed allowances before major tournaments, noting that the situation reflects poorly on the country’s priorities and governance.
