Presidency Summons NFF Bosses Over Diversion of Funds

Presidency Summons NFF Bosses Over Diversion of Funds

Seven top officials of the(NFF), including the first and second vice presidents, Seyi Akinwunmi and Shehu Dikko, have been summoned by the Special Presidential Investigation Panel (SPIP).

In a letter from the Presidency addressed to the President, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), with reference CR:3000/SPIP/ABJ/T5/VOL.2, dated October 24, 2018, the seven NFF officials were invited to make clarification on certain issues being investigated by the panel, including recovery of public property and diversion of public funds, Guardian writes.

The letter signed by the Director of Operations, Tahir Usman, on behalf of chairman of the panel, also has Alhaji Ahmed Yusuf (aka Fresh), Barrister Christopher Green, Otumba Sunday Dele Ajayi, Alizor Chuks and Mohammed Cheku on the list of those invited.

“Following the constitution of the Special Presidential Investigation Panel (SPIP) for the Recovery of Public Property in line with the Recovery of Public Property (Special Provision) Act. 2004, the panel is investigating an alleged case or conspiracy and Diversion of Public Funds in which the names of the above officers featured and the need to obtain certain clarification from your organisation becomes necessary,” the letter read.

“In view of the above, you are to release the officers for interview with the chairman of the Panel on October 30, 2018 by 11.00am prompt at SPIP office, Plot 2802, Idris Kutigi Street, adjacent to AIT, Guzupe, Asokoro extension, Abuja.

It is understood that the invitation of Akinwunmi, Dikko and other top NFF officials may not be unconnected with the alleged diversion of $10.8 million FIFA grant, in which three officials of the NFF are on trial with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).