Reno Omokri, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, has accused former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi of politicising the Flamingos’ victory in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Omokri asserted that Obi is trying to associate himself with the team’s achievement following Obi’s claim that he was stopped from greeting the players upon their return from Morocco.
In a statement on Tuesday, Omokri recalled the welcoming ceremonies for Nigeria’s victorious football teams, noting that former President Goodluck Jonathan greeted the Super Eagles after their AFCON win in 2013, and that Muhammadu Buhari did so for the Baby Eagles in 1985. He stressed that both leaders refrained from politicising these moments, even while they had their own political aspirations.
“Neither General Buhari nor Waziri Atiku Abubakar attempted to bypass protocol or sour the joyous mood by politicising the situation,” he stated, adding that placing personal interests above national protocols could be seen as neglecting the country’s interests.
Omokri described Obi’s actions as opportunistic, saying, “Sports should be protected from the toxic politics of individuals who try to sow disunity.” He argued that wishing to insert oneself into a victory without prior acknowledgment not only lacks integrity but is below the standard expected of a statesman.
Obi had alleged that officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) denied him the chance to welcome the Flamingos at Abuja airport. According to him, he arrived around 7am on Monday and asked his protocol officer to check if he could greet the team, but was told access was denied.
In response, Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, refuted Obi’s account, stating that officials did not see him near the players or the airport terminal. He emphasised that two men wearing Obi’s campaign gear approached for a photo opportunity, which was declined as the players were tired from their journey.
Dikko called for an apology from Obi, as the controversy detracted from the players’ achievement. Philip Shaibu, Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, added that Obi could have simply waved at the team like other Nigerians rather than seeking a formal meeting.
The Flamingos made history by defeating Japan 2-1 in the final on November 7, securing Nigeria’s first FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title and becoming the first African nation to win the competition.
