NFF CRISIS: FIFA threatens Nigeria with ban

THE Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) has warned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) of an impending “suspension” should Amaju Pinnick be removed as president.

It follows last week's regional high court ruling that Chris Giwa should be installed as the NFF's President and that the Fifa-recognised head, Amaju Pinnick, be sacked.

The NFF have appealed the judgement while Chris Giwa, who brought the court case, has declared himself the new President and even made some appointments.

Fifa warned that the country could face sanctions - including a ban - if a decision of the Federal High Court in Jos from Friday is implemented.

In a letter dated 11 April 2016 and addressed to Pinnick, Fifa's acting secretary general Markus Kattner said the ruling by a Jos federal high court is classed as "interference."

“We acknowledge receipt of your correspondence dated 8 April 2016 with regard to the ruling of the Federal High Court in Jos which apparently nullified the elections of 30 September 2014 of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

“In this respect, and first of all, we would Iike to remind you that according t0 articles 13 and 17 of the FIFA Statutes, all members associations have t0 manage their affairs independently and with no influence from third parties In addition and according to article 68 of the FIFA Statutes, recourse to ordinary courts of Iaw is prohibited unless specifically provided for in the FIFA regulations. Furthermore, it is the duty of each member association to ensure that these provisions are implemented by its members and possibly take sanctions against those which fail to respect these obligations.

“In view of the above, the decision of the Federal High Court in Jos, if implemented, would likely be considered a5 an interference in the internal affairs of the NFF and the case would be brought to the highest authorities of FIFA for consideration of sanctions, including the suspension of the NFF.

“Lastly, we would like to Stress that the plaintiff in question already filed an appeal in relation to the same matter with the highest judicial Sport authorities, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), and that said appeal was dismissed by the CAS on 18 May 2015.

“We thank you for taking note of the above and kindly ask you to keep us informed of any development.”