Teddy Oscar, Abuja
The House of Representatives on Tuesday implored the minister of sports and the National Sports Commission (NSC) to quickly swing into action and save Nigeria from a total ban by the world football governing body, the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).
Nigeria has up to Thursday, July 17 to resolve the crisis that led to the suspension imposed by FIFA, after the deadline was extended by two days, or risk a total ban the world football body.
The plea was sequel to the adoption of a motion moved by Hon. Muhammad Wudil, who drew the attention of the House to the possible negative effects of the suspension of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) by FIFA.
“The suspension, if not reversed, would mean that no team or club side from Nigeria can have any international sporting contact with teams or clubs sides from any other county,” Wudil said.
The motion was entitled: suspension of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) by the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).
He expressed worry that the suspension would have an immediate impact on the upcoming FIFA U-20 women world cup scheduled forAugust 5th – 24th in Canada.
Hon. Enokorogha Francis, who raised a point of order, urged the House to suspend debate on the matter, argued that it was before a court of competent jurisdiction.
But the motion was passed.
In passing the motion, the House urged the minister of sports and the director general of NSC to urgently summon all parties involved in the matter leading to the ban for a quick resolution.
It would be recalled that FIFA Emergency Committee on July 9, suspended NFF from all football activities, alleging government interference in football administration.
The ban implies that neither NFF nor any of its members or officials would benefit from any FIFA or CAF development programmes, including courses or training during the period of the suspension with adverse effects on the careers of Nigerian footballers and administrators.
