PFAN Gives NFF Two-day Ultimatum To Disassociate Self From Rival Group

PFAN Gives NFF Two-day Ultimatum To Disassociate Self From Rival Group By Niyi Busari Professional Football Association of Nigeria (PFAN) has informed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) they have two days to disassociate self from a rival footballers’ body or they should be prepared for “an all-out war”. In the last few days, a rival players’ group championed by one Chikelue Iloenyosi claimed to have come into being with Abdul Sule as president. Abdul Sule on Tuesday met with the NFF President Amaju Pinnick in Abuja. The exchange of pleasantries between the two presidents confirmed the allegation leveled against the NFF of having a hand in setting up the break-away group. [caption id="attachment_55280" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] NFF President Amaju Pinnick welcoming president of break-away group, Abdul Sule in Abuja[/caption] PFAN in a statement by its president, Tijjani Babangida buttressed the claim that the rival group consists of those who are close to Pinnick. The BOT Chairman of the purported union, Chikelue Iloeyonsi is the PA to Amaju Pinnick, NFF Technical Director is also the Technical Director of the Union, Bauchi State FA Chairman and Super Eagles Coordinator, Patrick Pascal is a member of the purported union. Super Eagles assistant coach, Joseph Yobo is the Vice President. However, PFAN warned the NFF that any attempt to divide the players’ union was “unethical” and will be “fully” resisted. The NFF leadership has become increasingly nervous of the bold steps undertaken by PFAN to impact positively on Nigeria Football. Ironically, the same Pinnick recently introduced PFAN president Tijjani Babangida to CAF President Patrice Motsepe at the draw ceremony for the delayed 2021 AFCON in Cameroon. The NFF had also sealed a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with PFAN to cede a percentage of sponsorship monies to the players’ union as is the practice worldwide. The Players' Union has concluded plans to intimate the government of Nigeria, international relevant authorities with the current situation and with documents and videos to proof to them the role of the NFF in the dramatic separation.