Nigeria’s Minister of Youth and Sports Solomon Dalung has confronted Vice President Yemi Osinbajo over the peaceful resolution of the crisis that has engulfed the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF over the years.
Mr Osinbajo, as Acting President sent a letter to FIFA informing the World Soccer Body that Amaju Pinnick is recognised by the Nigerian Government as NFF President to guide against FIFA ban.
But, Mr Dalung said while he welcomed the resolution, he is insisting that the matter has a subsisting judgement of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
A statement by his Media Aide, Nneka Ikem Anibeze, states: “The Minister of Youth and Sports Development Barrister Solomon Dalung welcomes the intervention of the Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo which saved Nigeria from a suspension threat by FIFA in the lingering crisis of the FootbaIl Federation.
“The Minister believes in the resolution of the crisis which has a history dating back to almost 20 years since the removal of Mr Anthony Kojo Williams from office.
“This crisis cannot be solved with a temporary measure or scratched on the surface. The intervention of the Vice President should not be viewed as different from an attempt to abate an escalating situation. “
However, the Minister notes that the matter has a subsisting judgement of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
“As a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, who took oath of office to protect and defend the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I will prefer to stand with the Rule of Law instead of the opinion of men.
“I want to appeal to Nigerians to remain calm and give support to the NFF Elders Stakeholders Reconciliation Committee which is made up of reputable past Presidents and General Secretaries of the NFF with vast knowledge, experience and competence to resolve this crisis once and for all.
“We are a constitutional democracy and the doctrine of separation of powers is the foundation of democratic experience, therefore, the Rule of Law is the only mechanism that guarantees liberty and freedom of citizens
“This administration was elected on the change mantra meaning that impunity has no accommodation anywhere, so Nigerians must learn to believe and practice the doctrine of the Rule of Law. I believe we shall overcome this if we remain within the confines and dictates of the laws of our country.
“As we celebrate Sallah, let’s remain law abiding citizens,” Dalung said.
